Daejeon (Korean: 대전; Korean pronunciation: [tɛdʑʌn] ) is South Korea's fifth-largest metropolis, with a population of nearly 1.5 million. Located in a central lowland valley between the Sobaek Mountains and the Geum River, the city is known both as a technology and research center, and for its close relationship with the natural environment. Daejeon is a major transportation hub, having developed as a railway town, and is approximately 50 minutes from Seoul by KTX or SRT high speed rail.
Daejeon (along with Seoul, Gwacheon and Sejong City) is one of South Korea's administration hubs. The city is home to 23 universities and colleges, including Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and Chungnam National University, as well as government research institutes, and research and development centers for many chaebols such as Samsung and LG, mostly located in the city's Daedeok Innopolis.
From the 1980s, multiple national administrative functions were moved from Seoul to Daejeon, most of which are now located in the Government Complex, resulting in another population increase. It was elevated to the status of metropolitan city in 1989. The city was a sub host for the 1986 Asian Games, hosted the Expo '93, the 2000 International Mathematical Olympiad and will be the main host city of the 2027 Summer World University Games.
Daejeon is situated in a lowland valley with three major rivers, all of them eventually flowing into the Yellow Sea by way of the Geum River. The city is surrounded by several small mountains, and is located approximately 170 km (106 mi) south of Seoul and 290 km (180 mi) north of Busan, and 70 km (43 mi) east of the Yellow Sea. It experiences a monsoon-influenced, four-season climate with wet, hot summers and drier, cold winters.
Daejeon is bordered to the east by Boeun County and Okcheon County in North Chungcheong Province, to the west by Gongju and Gyeryong in South Chungcheong Province, to the south by Geumsan County and Nonsan in South Chungcheong Province, and to the north by Sejong City and Cheongju in North Chungcheong Province. Its geographical coordinates range from 127°14′ to 127°33′ east longitude and 36°10′ to 36°29′ north latitude. Daejeon covers an area of 539.98 square kilometers and has a population of 1,518,775 as of 2015. Administratively, the city is divided into five districts and 79 administrative neighborhoods (177 legal neighborhoods). The metropolitan city hall is located in Dunsan-dong, Seo District.
Daejeon (대전, 大田, formerly Taejon) is the capital of South Chungcheong province. Yuseong Hot Springs Resort and Daecheong Dam are amongst the city's most popular tourist attractions.
Daejeon is the 5th largest city in South Korea, with a population of approximately 1.44 million. It is in the centre of Korea and is at the crossroads of national rail and road transport routes, the Gyeongbu railway, Honam railway, Gyeongbu Expressway, and Honam Expressway.
The city has been promoted as a city of science and education centred about Daedeok Science Town, more lately called Daedeok Innopolis. The Daejeon municipal government dubs itself a core city of research and development and the cradle of Korea's cutting-edge science sector.
More than 200 research institutes, including the research and development facilities of Samsung, LG, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), are located within Daedeok Science Town in Yuseong-gu on the far outskirts of town, locally referred to as "Daedeok Techno Valley". This, plus the "Daedeok Innopolis" cluster of KAIST, Chungnam National University and government research institutes lend themselves to the city's local nickname: the Silicon Valley of Korea.
The local image is generally good enough to rank fourth after Seoul, Busan, and Jeju in 2019, first in quality of life, health, environment, transportation, and administrative capacity index in 2021 and second after Seoul in the comprehensive sector.
It is also a city with a very well-established local autonomy system. As a result,the World Federation of Local Governments meeting was held in October 2022. More than 1,000 local and local government councils from 140 countries participated as members.
Beyond the skyline, Daejeon is Korea’s de‑facto research corridor, a fact that reshapes everyday life. The government‑backed Daedeok Innopolis clusters biotech, nanotech and ICT firms in campus‑style parks, where glass‑walled labs often spill their lunchtime chatter onto public plazas. For the curious traveller, a stroll through the surrounding neighbourhoods offers an unexpected glimpse of prototype drones parked next to street‑side cafés, and university students debating algorithms on commuter trains. This blend of high‑tech ambition and routine urban rhythm gives the city a kinetic pulse that feels more like a living laboratory than a conventional metropolis.
The modest Daejeoncheon stream threads the city centre, transforming with the calendar. In early spring, cherry‑blossom petals drift downstream, and locals set up low‑profile picnics on the grassy banks, while cyclists take advantage of the newly cleared bike path. Summer brings a network of pop‑up night markets beside the water, where street‑food stalls serve fiery tteokbokki alongside chilled makgeolli, creating a tactile contrast to the surrounding concrete. Autumn’s cooler air draws joggers and senior walkers, and the river’s surface mirrors the ochre of turning leaves. Visiting at different times lets you experience the same waterway as a social stage rather than just a geographical feature.
Daejeon has a monsoon-influenced, 4 season climate that lies within the transition between the humid continental and humid subtropical climatic regimes (Köppen Dwa/Cwa respectively). Monthly mean temperatures range from −1.9 °C (28.6 °F) in January to 25.5 °C (77.9 °F) in August.
Daejeon is 167.3 km from Seoul, 201 km from Busan and 169 km from Gwangju. It is also close to the proposed site of a new administrative city, Sejong City.
Daejeon is separated into 5 administrative divisions or gu (구), (districts), all of which maintain their own tourist website in English. The divisions are largely run along rivers bisecting the city.
Daedeok-gu (대덕구; 大德區)
Dong-gu (동구; 東區)
Jung-gu (중구; 中區)
Seo-gu (서구; 西區)
Yuseong-gu (유성구; 儒城區)
Dunsan is not a gu, but is the central business district and where you will find the majority of the shops and restaurants. The area is served by three stops on the subway: City Hall, Government Complex and Galma stops 111, 112, 113 respectively. For more upscale shopping and accommodation, head over to the Yuseong hot springs resort town (Yuseong-gu), which is the northwest part of the city, and is serviced by the Yuseong-spa subway stop. The former city centre is located in Jung-gu and serviced by the Jungangno subway stop.
Gyeryongsan National Park straddles the city border to the west. Three streams which eventually join with Geum River, called Gapcheon (갑천), Yudeungcheon (유등천), and Daejeoncheon (대전천), flow through the city from south to north.
To pick up a map you can visit the information desk in EXPO Park or in Daejeon Station. For district tourism offices please see
Daejeon Tourist Information Center, 1F, 7daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu (Expo Science Park), ☏ +82 42 1330, +82 42 861-1330. Mar-Oct: 09:00-18:00, Nov-Feb: 09:00-18:00. Information is provided by interpreters in English. Japanese or Chinese. For tourist information dial 1330 (with no prefix number) from within Daejeon (updated Jan 2021)
Daejeon Railway Station Information Service, Jeong-dong, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 42 221-1905.
Express Bus Terminal tourism information, ☏ +82 42 632-1338.
Daejeon International Community Center (DICC) (大田国际交流中心), Juwon Building 3-4F, 77-2 Jung-dong, Dong-gu (across the street from the main KTX train station; subway/underground take the #2 exit into the beginning of the underground shopping area, look for the #2 exit on your left, then take the stairs on your left; the DICC will be on your right within 10 m, on the 4th floor with signs in English), ☏ +82 42 223-0789. Sa Su 09:00-21:00, Tu-F 10:00-19:30, closed Mondays and holidays. English-speaking staff provide visitor information and support.
City of Daejeon website
Daejeon is a road and rail transportation hub in South Korea. Two major expressways, Gyeongbu Expressway and Honam Expressway, and two major railways, Gyeongbu railway and Honam railway, are joined here. Travel time between Daejeon and Seoul using the high-speed railway system, otherwise known as KTX, is about 1 hr. The nearest airport to Daejeon is Cheongju Airport in the neighbouring city Cheongju and at least 30 min by road to the north of Daejeon.
The local airport provides a few options for international travelers, with Cheongju International Airport (Hangul: 청주국제공항; Hanja: 淸州國際空港) (CJJ IATA) just north of Cheongju city. There is a railway station next to the airport, called Cheongju Airport station, which is on the Chungbuk Line although it is 600 m from the airport. The usual way to reach Daejeon from the airport is via intercity bus.
Nevertheless, most travelers will arrive in South Korea via Incheon International Airport and get to Daejeon via the plentiful high speed train or bus services.
Parking for 1,100 vehicles is available opposite the passenger terminal. The facility is open from 06:30-22:00.Cheongju International airport has a very limited schedule, with flights from Jeju for a few times a day.
Korean Air has two flights a week from Hangzhou in China and two flights a week from Bangkok in Thailand.
Cheongju Airport Station (600 m from the front gate of the airport), ☏ +82 43 214-2114 (Ticket issuing), +82 43 210-6616, +82 43 210-6328 (Inquiries). A shuttle bus operates between the Airport Station ⇔ Airport passenger terminals. All passenger trains on the Chungbuk line stop here. Tickets are issued at 1F tourist information counter in the airport passenger terminal.
Buses to Daejeon Dongbu Terminal, Cheongju Airport ↔ Daejeon Dongbu Terminal - ₩3,500
Daejeon lies on the main train line connecting Seoul and Busan. There are two principal train stations in Daejeon, the main Daejeon Station and the secondary Seo-Daejeon Station. Both are served by the KTX, the Korean high speed bullet train rail service. It takes about 1 hr from Seoul to Daejeon (₩23,700; Economy Class; Feb 2019) and it takes approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes to travel from Daejeon to Busan by KTX.
Conventional trains take about twice as long but come at a considerably lower price. As an example at the other end of the spectrum an unreserved "deluxe floor" seat on the Mugunghwa from Seoul will set you back less than ₩9,000 and take almost 2 hr. A similar train from Busan to Daejeon will take almost 4 hr but costs under ₩15,000. If these sound unreasonable, bear in mind that trains down the main line in Korea do sell out, especially on Sunday afternoons and into the late night so you may have no say in the matter. On the bright side, the last Mugwanhwa from Busan terminates at Daejeon, so if stuck on its cold, cold floor, you can usually upgrade yourself (to 1st class even) after Daegu.
There are several railway stations. The station you will arrive at or leave from depends on where you're coming from or where you're going. If using the KTX Gyeongbu Line or the KTX Honam Line you may want to try to get off at Shintanjin Station to the north of the city or Seodaejeon Station to the southwest if using the KTX Honam Line.
1 Daejeon Station (KTX Gyeongbu Line), Jeong-dong, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 42 1588-7788. The station opened in 1905 and was expanded with the completion of a new station building in 2003. It serves the bullet train between Seoul and Busan. The bullet train takes you to Seoul in around 50 min from Daejeon. It is operated by the Korea National Railroad
Arriving on the North-bound Line—intermediate points are Cheonan·Asan ⇒ Gwangmyeong ⇒ Yongsan ⇒ Seoul (northern terminus)
Arriving on the South-bound Line—intermediate points are Dong-Daegu ⇒ Miryang ⇒ Gupo ⇒ Busan (southern terminus)
2 Seo-Daejeon Station (KTX Honam Line), 74 Oryu-dong, Jung-gu. The Seo-Daejeon Station began service in 1914 when the railway between Daejeon and Mokpo opened. If wishing to travel to the Jeolla area by rail (southwest areas of the country) then make your way to this station, not Daejeon Station.
Arriving on the North-bound Line—intermediate points are Cheonan·Asan ⇒ Gwangmyeong ⇒ Yongsan ⇒ Seoul (northern terminus)
Arriving on the South-bound Line—intermediate points are Nonsan ⇒ Iksan ⇒ Gimjae ⇒ Jeongeup ⇒ Gwangju ⇒ Naju ⇒ Mokpo (southern terminus)
Tickets for Korail (Korea National Railroad) services can be purchased at station windows, travel agencies, or online.
To add to the confusion, if entering via bus, there are three intercity bus terminals, and several pick up stops for the airport bus express.
Dongbu inter-city bus terminal connects to major cities in South and North Chungcheong province. Dong-bu express bus terminal connects to most major cities in South Korea via express way. They are share a building in Yongjeon-dong, Dong-gu.
Seobu bus terminal in Yucheong-dong, Seo-gu, connects to western regions of South Chungcheong province such as Nonsan, Buyeo, and Daecheon. Yuseong bus terminal located in Bongmyeong-dong,
Yuseong-gu, connects to northern regions of South Chungcheong province such as Gongju, Yesan, Dangjin, and Cheonan.
There are two bus stop around government complex, some of express buses depart from Dong-bu and Yuseong stop by as well as the bus destined for Incheon airport (the ride takes 3 hr 15 min).
Incoming buses terminating at Dong-bu terminal drop all passengers off at a random one of a few petrol stations or empty carparks near the terminal. Don't be alarmed. Whilst inconvenient for those transferring on, this does leave you on the right side of the road to grab the local express bus #2 down to the central Korail/subway station.
Locals and those staying for a longer time can purchase a Hana bank rechargeable transportation card, which offers free transfers. When you open an account at Hana bank, this smart bank card can be charged with money to be used on buses, taxis. "Hankkumi" transportation cards are also available at manned booths within the subway stops. These cards cost ₩2,500 and are rechargeable at the station or at many GS 25 locations. Its one subway line bisects the city and runs south-east from the north-west corner. Only central Daejeon, old downtown (Daejeon station area) and a handful of sites are convenient to reach solely by subway. The subway is compatible with Seoul T-money passes. Hankkumi cards or tags contain both Hankkumi and Seoul T-money functionality.
The inner-city bus service is extensive, but a bit slow. Most buses pass through Daejeon station which does not have a bus rank. Instead, they all leave from one of about 10 stops dotted around the area. Note that bus routes 1 and 2 are express stops and annoyingly not even typically marked on the handful of bus shelters where they do stop.
City bus services in Daejeon buses are divided into four types.
Each type of bus has a different colour; red, blue and green (2).
Red buses express cover 2 routes (1 and 2). They stop at major bus stops, ensuring a rapid transit service.
Blue buses regular connect the downtown areas with the suburbs.
Green buses there are 2 types of green - coloured buses:
One of the green buses connects all districts within Daejeon, and the other connects Daejeon with its neighboring areas.
Bus fares vary depending on the passenger's age group. Children, middle and high school students, and adults. A Traffic card is available and offers discounts and free transfer. T-money also works for discounts and free transfers,
Each bus has two doors:
The front door for entry and back door for exit.
Place your transit card close to the card reader upon entry and exit.
Cash payment is no longer available.
Expo Park - 121, 301, 606, 705, 911, 918
Daejeon O-world - 301, 115, 311, 314, 318, 315
Bomun-san (Mt.) - 119, 619, 618, 108, 313, 620
Gyejok-san (Mt.) - 103, 617, 311, 314
Daecheong Dam - 72, 73
Gubong-san (Mt.) - 210, 114, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26
Jangtae-san (Mt.) - 22
Sikjang-san (Mt.) - 611, 619, 607, 313, 60, 61, 62, 63, 71
Manin-san (Mt.) - 501
Uam Historial Park - 311
Jangsu Town - 312, 313
Donghak-sa (Temple) - 107, 48
Daejeon Korail Station - 1, 30, 31, 52, 60, 62, 63, 102, 311, 501, 511, 512, 603, 605, 606, 607, 612, 616
Seodaejeon Korail Station - 119, 201, 202, 314, 612, 613, 701
Shintanjin Korail Station - 2, 71, 72, 75, 703, 704, 705
Dongbu Intercity and Express Bus Terminal - 2, 102, 105, 106, 201, 501, 601, 602, 607, 611, 616, 701, 802
Seobu Intercity Bus Terminal - 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32, 34, 41, 42, 43, 45, 46, 47, 113, 316, 916
Yuseong Intercity Bus Terminal - 109, 911
A full bus route map is printed on practically every last bus shelter in town. Navigation may be easier if used in combination with a pocket-sized printed copy of the numerical list above.
Two city tour buses also run, doing daytime trips between "science" sites such as the Currency Museum, Expo park and KAIST. Night time trips between "night" sites include Yuseong Spa and Daecheong Dam. They wind across town via various pick-up spots prior to the tour and tend to end at Yuseong, but perhaps the most convenient pick-up point is at the park at the rear (south side) of City Hall.
The City Bus Free Transfer System allows bus passengers holding a traffic card to transfer to another bus or subway three times at no additional cost. When using this system passengers are only required to pay a single fare for up to 4 segments of travel in a single direction. The traffic card allows 3 free transfers within 80 min of the first boarding, with 30 min transit time subsequent to the passenger placing the card on the card reader when exiting. Another service will need to be boarded and the card read again within the specified 30 min (off the bus) period.
Check the city website (English version is available) for the latest schedules, departure times and costs.
Daejeon's first subway line opened in 2006, connecting Daejeon Station to both the western and eastern parts of the city. The subway stations are fed by buses, and the fare is ₩1200-1,400 a ride, with tickets easily bought from machines (select the price according to the map it displays, enter money, get a token). The subway is extremely clean and tidy, and the stations are regularly decorated with art courtesy of local university arts students or schoolchildren. Small musical performances aimed at the older generations of Koreans (often some quite pleasant jazz) are sometimes held in Daejeon and Seodaejeon-negori stations.
Daejeon Subway Line 1 is the first of a planned 5-line subway system for the city. It connects Daejeon station in the original city centre, with the newer sections of this city, including Dunsan. The other lines have not yet opened and future plans for the extra lines appear to remain speculative.
Daejeon is quite spaced out, so taxis fares can run up quickly. For a cross-town trip, expect to spend up to ₩10,000, far higher if travelling to the lesser developed outer regions west of the bisecting mountain range, north of Yuseong, or around Shintanjin. The width of town can be covered usually in ₩4,000-5,000. Daejeon experiences near city-wide gridlock from 17:00 to almost 00:00 on Fridays and 17:00 to 19:00 on weekdays so use the subway to cross the length of the city and catch a taxi from there to cover the width. Unregistered taxis are a common sight around the Dongbu bus terminal, so keep a keen lookout for the "It's Daejeon" logo on the side of the vehicle or a meter in the front if you don't wish to be mislead or deceived by unlicensed operators in un-metered vehicles.
Daejeon has a system of public-use bikes Tashu, which is available for a nominal fee for short rentals, although it can rise quickly for extended use (>1 hr as of July 2014). The system requires a mobile phone number and Alien Registration Number to use. Note that stations are present mostly in the central valley, and may be empty or filled (thus preventing returns). Check for stations near your destination via the station's computer before renting a bike. Although bikes are maintained, they are quite often broken, so be sure to check the bike before renting. Bicycle roads exist in larger roads and riversides but tend to be filled with pedestrians and tend not to yield to cyclists.
Daejeon is mostly far too spread out to be convenient to walk between attractions. However, Expo Park, the National Science Museum, Hanbat Arboretum, Dajeon Museum of Art, Mannyeon-dong, and even Dunsan-dong (although this last one is pushing it) are situated close enough to one another to wander back and forth.
There are 8 sites designated by the city government as scenic attractions, these are the Eight Sights of Daejeon.
1 Sikjangsan Mountain Forest (식장산), Deasungdong Dogu, ☏ +82 42-600-3695. Open all year round, no parking facilities. The site provides extensive walking trails and temple visits. Free. (updated Oct 2024)
2 Mount Bomunsan (보문산), Desadong Junggu, ☏ +82 42-581-3516. Observatory, recreation facilities, and cable cars. Also 20 springs, one every 20 m and each supplies drinkable water. 10 trail routes are available including the Sirubong, Mupilbon, and Sansunggil trails. Important historical sites are located on the top of the mountain. Open year round. A few access ways are available, but the most popular one is via Bomunsan Park Jct. Free. (updated Aug 2017)
3 Mount Gubongsan (구봉산), San 75 Kwanjeodong Seogu, ☏ +82 42-611-6261. Open all year round, no parking facilities. This mountain has 9 peaks and walking trails. Free. (updated Oct 2023)
4 Mount Jangtaesan (장태산), Jangandong Seogu, ☏ +82 42-585-8061. Accommodation, fish farm, deer farms, a children’s playground within man-made forests and natural forests. 12 km trails, a sky tower, small gorges, rest and picnic areas. Children are provided with playgrounds and there are exercise facilities throughout the park. (updated Oct 2023)
5 Yuseong Spa (유성온천지구), Bongmyeongdong Yuseonggu, ☏ +82 42-611-2130. Wounded soldiers of the Baekje Dynasty are said to have been healed after taking a bath in these springs. Kings and presidents including the first King of the Josun Dynasty, have reposed here. (updated May 2018)
6 Expo Park (대전엑스포 시민광장), Deajeon Expo Science Park Local Corporation 3-1 Doryongdong, Yusunggu, ☏ +82 42-866-5114. Commemorate the Deajeon Expo held in 1993 and committed to understanding the role of science and technology. Closed every Monday. Entrance ₩2,500 per person. Parking for 100 cars, small ₩1,500-large ₩2,000. Image simulation hall, dome image hall, energy hall, electric energy hall, and science hall science/exhibition, science academy, robot class, handicraft class, body world, dinosaur festival, unification hall, Hanbit tower, scientist street, Aqua resort, Magic plaza, Gabcheon River, restaurant street, dining hall and tourist information centre. During the 1993 Deajeon Expo, a total ₩180 billion was invested. 108 countries participated and 14 million visitors attended. (updated May 2018)
7 Daecheong Lake (대청호수), Daedeok-gu Miho-dong, ☏ +82 42-930-7241. Tu-Su. Information office is at 618-316, Daecheong-ro, Daedeok-gu, Daejeon Metropolitan City (left bank of Daecheong Dam). The lake was formed in 1980 when the Deacheon Dam was completed. This lake provides Deajeon City and Cheongju City with drinking water. Open year round. No parking facilities. Free. (updated Oct 2023)
8 Mount Gyejoksan (계족산), Hyopyeongdong Donggu, ☏ +82 42-620-6256. Bike and walking trails. Site of the Yongwal thermal power plant, and Gyejok Mountain Fortress. Open year round. No parking facilities. Free. (updated Oct 2023)
Many of the other cultural centres and sight seeing places are located in Yuseong-gu district with the exception of Ppuri park and Daejeon Zoo.
9 Daecheong Dam (take the 72 or 73 bus). Large dam on the far north east outskirts of town. Responsible for the Daecheonghosu lake, South Korea's largest.
10 The Daejeon Museum of Art (in Dunsan Grand Park). An art museum established in 1998 and focused on the convergence of art and technology. Numerous exhibitions on contemporary art have been held here.
11 Daejeon Philharmonic Orchestra (대전시립교향악단), 135, Dunsan-daero, Mannyeon-dong, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 42-270-8382. Performs in Daejeon Culture and Arts Center and other local venues. It has undertaken several international tours, including visits to the United States and Japan.
12 Daejeon Station (대전역). A walk around the alleyways straight across from the station will offer Ginseng (인삼 insam) and traditional medicine stores. Across the street from the market, see the Buy section of this article.
13 National Cemetery (국립대전현충원), 251, Memorial Park-ro, Yuseong-gu (take the courtesy bus from the National Cemetery Daejeon subway station), ☏ +82 42-718-7114. 06:00-18:00. National cemetery for Korea's war heroes and patriots. It's quite beautifully landscaped and surrounded by a ring walking trail. Dress standards apply. Free.
14 Hanbat Arboretum (한밭수목원, Hanbat Sumokuwon) (bus, or walk the long route around the Daejeon Government Complex from the subway, cutting through the government complex grounds). If coming by taxi, be sure to use the Korean name. Free.
15 Dunsan Prehistoric Settlement Site, Dunsan-dong (Government Complex Daejeon subway stop; two blocks north and one block west of the station). When excavating for Dunsan new town in the early 1990s, a bunch of "stone-age" relics were discovered. Prior to the discovery, it was widely believed the region had a rather recent history. At a glance, the site is essentially a very hilly grassy park with scattered reproduction 'prehistoric huts' built over it. However the site provides extensive historical information for visitors. It is open at night and the inside of the huts light up as you approach showing off an interpretation of what was discovered, complete with reproductions of the various farming and domestic tools unearthed. Free.
16 Ppuri Park, Jangsu Town (take the 312 or 313 through Jangsu Town, it's the last stop; or you could hike about 1 km down the road south from O-world). A family-oriented park on the far southern outskirts of town. Down by a smallish dam, there are the usual swan boats and the like, but the odd drawcard is the hill covered in stone statues representing local family lineages. Local Koreans no doubt have a great time pouring over these, tracing their roots (ppuri), but to the casual observer it's just a curious, if unusual, collection of modern art. A path also leads over a bridge and to the top of the cliff directly to the south where not only is there a pleasant view, but the peak is also littered with a bizarre array of wooden phalli. Free.
17 Sungsimdang, 15 Daejong-ro 480beon-gil, Jung-gu. It is a famous bakery that ranks first in sales among non-franchise bakery nationwide. It is one of the most famous places in Daejeon and is the most famous among the three major bakeries in the country. It is considered one of the representatives and best practices of local self-employed businesses, with six restaurants in Eunhaeng-dong dramatically revived after losing competition with the large franchise bakery industry. (updated Dec 2022)
18 Daejeon Expo Aquarium (대전엑스포아쿠아리움), Basement 1, Daejeon Shinsegae Art & Science, 1 Expo-ro, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-607-8852. 10:30-19:00. It is a complex cultural space where you can enjoy various sea creatures and contents through media art as well as living creatures. ₩32000 for adults, ₩27000 for children. (updated Oct 2025)
19 Daejeon Aquarium (대전아쿠아리움), 469, Bomunsan-gongwon-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-226-2100. Weekdays 10:00-18:00, weekends 10:00-19:00. It is the first and largest freshwater fish aquarium in Korea, where you can see various freshwater fish from other countries and decorated fish by theme. ₩23000 for adults. (updated Oct 2025)
20 Daejeon Modern History Exhibition Hall (대전근현대사전시관), 101 Jungang-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-270-4538. 10:00-18:00. Along with viewing the building, you can see many events in modern and contemporary history of Daejeon and special exhibitions in various fields such as history, architecture, urban planning, design, and popular culture. (updated Oct 2025)
21 Daejeon Citizen (대전하나시티즌), 32 World Cup-daero, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-824-2002. The city's K-league soccer team. Daejeon, being a co-host of the 2002 FIFA World Cup, has a soccer stadium in Yuseong-gu on the north side of town (월드컵경기장 World cup kyeonggijang), quite literally and unbelievably plonked in the middle of a farm and now rather rusty in appearance. It's serviced by a dedicated subway station (listen for the old Korean World Cup theme song announcing the stop), although you'd have to walk through the Nouen Wholesale Market and adjacent Wholesale Fish Market to get there. ₩10,000 and under from the team website.
22 Hanwha Eagles (한화이글스), 373, Daejong-ro, Jung-gu. The city's professional baseball team. Baseball games are held at the baseball field of Hanbat Sports Complex ex (한밭 운동장 Hanbat undongjang). Express bus #2 passes by it, or it can be walked within 15-20 min from Jungangno station. Various teams play including the local professional team and those of the local universities sometimes on Friday nights. Despite tickets being rather inexpensive, many locals choose to climb up nearby Mt. Bomun to the conspicuously-placed observatory and watch down with binoculars. ₩10,000. (updated Dec 2022)
23 Euneungjeongi Cultural Street (으능정이 거리), 145, Jungang-ro, Jung-gu. Euneungjeongi Cultural Street is known for its vibrant LED media facade and various cultural performances. (updated Sep 2025)
1 Yuseong Hot Springs Resort (Hot Springs & Saunas), Yuseong-gu Bongmyeong-dong, ☏ +82 42-611-2114, +82 42-824-0210, +82-42-1330 (Korea Travel). These hot springs are known to be effective in countering many kinds of maladies. Containing alkaline minerals such as calcium, and potassium, sulfur, carbonic acid, silicic acid and radium and are considered to be beneficial in treating neuralgia and geriatric diseases. Accommodation is available nearby.
2 Daejeon Observatory. Tu-Su 14:00-22:00, closed Mondays and the day following a national holiday. Here you can observe the sun during the day or any number of celestial bodies at night. Located west of Expo Park, take the 604 bus to the observatory stop. (updated Oct 2023)
3 National Science Museum (국립중앙과학관 Gungnip Jungang Gwahakgwan) (adjacent to Expo Park on the north side of town), ☏ +82 42-601-7894, webadmin@science.go.kr. Tu-Su 09:30-17:50, closed Mondays. Showcases both permanent and special exhibitions. ₩1,000 for exhibitions and another ₩1,000 for planetarium; half price for under-20s.
4 Daejeon Currency Museum (화폐박물관 Hoapyebak Mulgwan) (behind KAIST in Wolpyeong.), ☏ +82 42-870-1000, fax: +82 42-861-5245. Tu-Su 10:00-17:00, 10:00-16:00 in winter, closed Mondays. Historical currencies of Korea up to the modern day, including those of the DPRK (North Korea). Free.
5 Daejeon Museum of Art (대전시립미술관), Seo-gu Mannyeon-dong 396 (from the subway station, it's on the opposite side of the government complex), ☏ +82 42-270-7371. 10:00-19:00 (closed on Monday). Daejeon's primary art facility, nestled between the Government Complex Daejeon, Hanbat Arboretum and the small Mannyeong-dong restaurant district. Has a spacious park filled with modern art sculptures out the front. A small stage out the front sometimes hosts free cultural performances on weekends.
6 Daejeon Art Center ((대전창작센터) Daejeon Changjak Center), Eunhaeng-dong, Jung-gu (three blocks south of exit 2 of Jungangno subway station, on the corner of the Eunhaeng-negori junction; it has the space-invader mosaic on the front). Small art gallery in old downtown showcasing modern art works of young artists. The exhibits rotate every 1-2 months exhibiting to an often unusual theme, individual pieces regularly are quite involved, taking up an entire room. Free.
7 Donghak-sa Temple, Gongju-shi (Bus #107). A picturesque temple outside of Daejeon in the adjacent city of Gongju, but linked in on the Daejeon bus routes. In addition to the temple, the valley contains restaurants, hotels and saunas (including a fair few of the funky "hobbit mushroom" styled ones) and a fairly dramatic waterfall, albeit dry much of the year. This all falls within Gyeryongsan National Park. A well stocked tourist information booth exists at the entrance and is an ideal starting point for a hiking trip over the region. Restaurants in the area tend to be well catered towards foreign (primarily Japanese) tourists with picture menus of the most popular items: a rarity in central South Korea. To get in, the 107 bus will take you from Daejeon Korail station direct, although it is much faster to take the subway to the National Cemetery station, and hop on the 107 there as it prepares to zip out of town. The bus stop is right next to the subway exit. ₩2000.
8 Uam Historical Park, Dong-gu Kayang-dong (Bus #311). Historic scholarly site nestled in a mountain valley. Has a well kept lake and quite nice to stroll around. Hosts a (poorly gazetted) festival sometime in October. For hikers, the trail hidden at the rear-left of the park continues up the mountain, past a place to fill your water bottles and after a less than 30 min walk, all the way to the top of the ridge overlooking the immense Daecheong lake east of town. Free.
9 Yuseong Foot Spa, Yuseong-gu (from the Yuseong Spa subway stop head towards the main Yuseong junction to the north; turn east and follow the wide grassy median strip about 500 m down the road). A heated foot spa. The temperature is pretty high but varies along the length so it's appropriate even in winter, and you won't overheat in summer. Unlike most foot spas, the local populace demands pre-washing of feet at the wash-station at the end of the foot spa prior to entering (akin to the etiquette of a full body public bathhouse). Drop your stuff where you intend to sit, then walk down the end, wash up, and walk down the spa to get back to your seat. It can be an embarrassingly fulfilling sight seeing the elderly locals accosting Korean visitors from elsewhere in Korea unaware of this unstated rule. To get there, leave the subway station and head towards the main Yuseong junction to the north. Turn east and follow the wide grassy median strip about 500 m down the road. Free.
10 O-World (easy to reach if coming by car: literally all major intersection signs across Daejeon point to here; by bus, take 301, 115, 311, 314, 318 or 315). A theme park, on the far, far south end of the city. Comprises Zooland (zoo boasting 130 species), Flower Land (flower park boasting 190 species) and Joyland (a regular ol' theme park).
The Dreamland theme park up on Mt. Bomun, despite being marked on many maps, has-been closed and demolished.
The river flood plain adjacent to Expo Park is where a lot of expatriate action takes place on the weekends outside of the festival, and also makes for a nice stroll.
Whilst Dunsan downtown tends to cater to the retail-loving crowd, the downtown area in central Daejeon (Jungangno subway station) and particularly the area a few blocks south tends to be rather artsy, including many small, often privately run art galleries. Some of these are attached to independent coffee shops. Occasionally on Sundays there are street stalls run by local arts students.
11 Namsun Park Comprehensive Sports Center (남선공원종합체육관), 66, Namseon-ro, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 42-488-5605. 06:00-21:30 (swimming pool), 06:00-22:45 (gym/gym), 10:00-17:45 (ice rink). It operates the only ice rink and wave pool in Daejeon, and is a comprehensive leisure sports center where you can enjoy various sports such as golf, squash, and futsal. (updated Oct 2025)
12 Daedong Sky Park (대동하늘공원), 20-9, Jayang-dong, Dong-gu. It consists of Daedong Mural Village, Daedong Street Art Museum, Baegolsan Love Rock, Daedong Haneul Park Windmill, and Haneul Park Cafe. (updated Oct 2025)
Daejeon has a history of attempting to jumpstart annual festivals (a Winter lights festival in Jungangno for example) only to have them fall on their face after one year. Signs still promote some of these on the outskirts of town.
Daejeon Balloon Festival (opposite Expo Park, by the river). Once a year around October, this is not the international balloon festival you are likely thinking of. The 2010 edition of this annual event only had two hot-air balloons, both tethered tightly to the ground. However, as the sun sets, they let off an amazingly large quantity of small disposable lantern balloons that float off in the south-westerly breeze of the neon Smart Towers housing complex and into the mountains. Both Daejeon city and the DICC have a tendency to try to book in other festivals at the same time as this nearby to attract more out-of-town visitors, so keep an eye on local schedules.
Cherry Blossom Festival. In Shintanjin, in April (spring) when the flowers happen to be in full bloom.
Daejeon International Bread Festival. The Daejeon International Bread Festival is one of the city's signature annual events, celebrating Daejeon's status as the 'City of Bread' and a culinary hub for bakery arts. Held annually, the festival gathers famous local establishments—like Sung Sim Dang—and leading national bakeries, offering a massive variety of specialty breads and pastries. This vibrant event is a must-visit for food lovers, featuring tastings, baking demonstrations, and contests that highlight Korea's modern baking culture. (updated Nov 2025)
Daejeon International Wine Festival. The Daejeon International Wine Festival is a major annual event that attracts global attention, positioning Daejeon as a central city for the international wine industry in Korea. The festival offers a vast array of global wines for tasting and purchase, alongside food pairings, educational seminars, and wine-related cultural programs. Held in conjunction with the Asia Wine Trophy competition, it is highly recommended for wine enthusiasts seeking to explore diverse vintages and enjoy a sophisticated cultural event. (updated Nov 2025)
Any, or all, of 5 mountains designated by Daejeon tourism amongst the city's eight most popular sites:
Mt. Sikjangsan (southeast)
Mt. Bomunsan (south)
Mt. Gubongsan (southwest)
Mt. Jangtaensan (south)
Mt. Gyejoksan (northeast)
Most have either a typical Korean gazebo at the top or a historic fortress wall, or often both. Jangtaesan has a treetop walkway. Springs offering drinking water are marked on the local maps. To find the start of the myriad hiking trails, a good rule of thumb is to look for burial mounds on the hills, as they are often lurking just behind them. Once on the trail, trail marking and intersection signposting is really good, but the actual start point locations are almost never announced.
Watch baseball, the national sport, at Daejeon Hanwha Life Ball Park (Hanwha Eagles) or football at Daejeon World Cup Stadium (Daejeon Citizen FC).
Watch volleyball at Daejeon chungmu Stadium (Samsung Bluefangs Club)
The city's traditional market is located next to the train station. The market by Daejeon Station is the general market, really nothing to write home about as far as appearances, the speciality stores are excellent, and you can get plants (from seeds to pots) which are not always easy to come by. Some household goods, and cheap clothes. The street to the southeast, outside the market perimeter, specialises in tools. South East Asian import canned and packet food including Mi Goreng (Indonesian-Malaysian dried instant noodles) and phone cards can be found at the International Food shop. Exit Daejeon Station through exit #3 and go straight for less than a minute. It's a very small shop that's located right in front of the traffic lights.
A second, slightly smaller traditional market exists in Yuseong. Further traditional markets still can also be found near Seodaejeon Korail station, opposite Hanbat stadium, and a little further east of the Dongbu Intercity bus terminal.
For further discounts, Nouen wholesale market is located north of Yuseong. Take the subway line and get off at the World Cup Stadium stop (the subway plays a little soccer theme song so you can't miss it).
There's a Costco directly beside Seodaejeon station. Costco offers OK discounted prices, and most everything is in bulk, but you can get some hard to find goods imported from the USA. You will need a personal (Gold Star) membership for ₩35,000, or you can use your card from home. It can solve dry food purchasing for a month or more in a single trip; watch out for seasonal specials, the November truffles make for nice, and cheap, gifts. For those without CostTo membership, E-mart Traders offers similar services with no membership requirements (not to be confused with E-mart proper). The Seodaejeon area also has the stock standard Home Plus, as well as some clothing department stores. The area is becoming rapidly one of the most affluent in the city so expect to see fancier outlets opening here over time. Uniqlo (Japanese unbranded clothing chain) is also located nearby on the basement floor of the Say Two Department Store (good to know in winter as it sells cheap thermals). The Lotte Department Store in Yongmun-dong has a Uniqlo as well (2nd floor).
E-Mart and Home Plus is relatively ubiquitous, and a bit dear too. It does, however, offer a variety of basic house goods for settling into a new home, deodorant, as well as basic general produce (both fresh and dry), which are marginally cheaper than the prices in most corner stores, as well as offering it all in one stop. If you can't afford to set up your new home here, perhaps try tracking down a Daiso, a Japanese "1,000-won store" chain that stocks all sorts of kitchenware and just general use plastic items.
For cool summer shopping and warm winter shopping head underground. Underground shopping can be found connected to subway stops at Daejeon Station and Jungang-no, stops 104 & 105 respectively, on line 1.
If looking for general Korea souvenir-items, two shops, quite literally opposite one another are underground at subway Exit 2 of Daejeon station (stop 104 on Line 1). They specialise in a wide variety of trinkets including from mass-produced items from elsewhere in the country.
Also, department store shopping is popular for the more affluent of Daejeon at Timeworld Galleria, Lotte Department Store and CGV; each of which also have a movie theatre on their top floor. Timeworld plays host to an array of full price brand outlets such as Burberry and Louis Vuitton, which despite the lacking crowds, still insists on having its patrons queue up to enter. The basement sells a wide variety of imported foods.
Most electronic needs can be found at TechnoWorld, which is close to KBS tower in Manneyong-dong, Seo-gu. For further consumer electronics, try the street running between Government Complex Daejeon subway station to Timeworld Galleria in the vicinity of Dunsan E-Mart: this street has no fewer than 3 electronics department stores Hi-mart, Jeonja Land plus smaller speciality stores LGgoodshop. Apple has a retailer called Frisbee outside Jungangno subway station, Jung-gu.
For funky independent-made items, keep an eye out for university-run arts fairs. There's no real way to know when you'll find one, but they are seemingly quite common.
Shopping
1 Shinsegae Department store Daejeon Branch (신세계 백화점 대전점), 1 Expo-ro, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 1588-1234. 10:30-20:00. A major luxury department store in Daejeon offering premium brands, dining, and entertainment facilities. (updated Nov 2025)
2 Galleria Department Store Timeworld (갤러리아 백화점 타임월드점), 211 Daedeok-daero, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 1544-6600. 10:30-20:00. A flagship department store in Daejeon known for luxury brands, trendy fashion, and a wide range of dining options. (updated Nov 2025)
3 Lotte Department Store Daejeon Branch (롯데 백화점 대전점), 598 Gyeryong-ro, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 1577-0001. 10:30-20:00. A major department store in Daejeon offering popular fashion brands, dining options, and convenient shopping facilities, including the famous bakery Sung Sim Dang on the first floor. (updated Nov 2025)
4 Homeplus Yuseong Branch (홈플러스 유성점), 502 Hanbat-daero, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-841-2080. 10:00-22:00. A large hypermarket in Yuseong offering groceries, household goods, clothing, and casual dining options in one convenient location. (updated Nov 2025)
5 Emart Dunsan Branch (이마트 둔산점), 41 Dunsanbuk-ro, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 42-479-1234. 10:00-23:00. A major Emart branch in Dunsan offering groceries, home goods, electronics, and daily necessities in a large, convenient shopping space. (updated Nov 2025)
6 Costco Korea Daejeon (코스트코 코리아 대전점), 41 Oryu-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 1899-9900. 10:00-22:00. A large membership-based warehouse store in Daejeon offering bulk groceries, household goods, electronics, and imported items at competitive prices. (updated Nov 2025)
7 Jungang Market (중앙시장), 200-1 Jungang-ro, Dong-gu. A large traditional market in Daejeon offering fresh produce, street food, clothing, and a lively local shopping experience. (updated Nov 2025)
8 Daejeon Station Underground Shopping Center (대전역 지하상가), 200 Jungang-ro, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 42-221-3628. 10:30-19:30. An underground shopping arcade connected to Daejeon Station, featuring clothing shops, cosmetics, accessories, and affordable eateries. (updated Nov 2025)
9 Nobrand Daejeon Jungchon Branch (노브랜드 대전 중촌동점), 626 Daejong-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 2-380-5111. 10:00-22:00. A budget-friendly retail store offering groceries, snacks, and daily essentials at low prices in the Jungchon area of Daejeon. (updated Nov 2025)
10 Mono Mart Daejeon Branch (모노마트 대전점), 1142 Daejeon-ro, Daedeok-gu, ☏ +82 42-633-3363. 9:00-19:00. A large global food ingredients market offering imported products, bulk items, and diverse international groceries. (updated Nov 2025)
In addition to the copious amounts of Korean restaurants and Koreanized "Japanese" izakayas scattered all over town, some foreign restaurants, including some offering Italian cuisine, can be found around the two main downtown districts of Dunsan-dong (opposite Timeworld) and near Jungangno station. Some nicer restaurants also still exist up near the World Cup Stadium.
Oddball theme restaurants are scattered around town. For example, there are a couple of eateries in Dong-gu near the Intercity bus terminal subscribing to the "hobbit mushroom" school of architecture, a restaurant called literally Nameless (이름없음, Ireumeopseum) in front of Woosong university whose decor could be best described as "clusterbomb of ropes", and a full military themed chicken joint on the wrong side of the tracks in Shintanjin (follow the road/lane due south from the Loving Hut listed below).
Sit-down sushi roll restaurants (as opposed to sushi trains) are scattered about Jungangno and Dunsan and can be a good option as the generic copy-cat business model typically involves picture-menus and prices under ₩10,000 a meal. Options go beyond sushi to salads, pastas, gratins, and Japanese style omu-rice. Korean-style sushi, not to be confused with kimbap is extremely flamboyant in appearance.
Finally, if just looking for a quick snack, don't be afraid to try the street food. In central Daejeon around Jungangno there are at least 1-2 of the standard Korean odeng stands. Standard etiquette is to literally just grab a stick, eat it, and pay after you finish, the most common price is ₩500. Topokki (떡볶이tteokbokki) is a spicy ricecake and eggs in red spicy sauce. Stalls plus a handful of vendors with permanent shop-fronts can also be found here. The funny looking "buns" you may see the owner frying up are in fact essentially an inside-out pancake with syrup and nuts.
The following are a few of the more outstanding or unusual eateries:
1 Indy, Dunsan-dong (diagonally across from the E-Mart in Dunsan-dong, near the T.G.I. Fridays and a Hanbok store; close to Government Complex subway station and buses the #185, #215, and #115 all drive by). Indian restaurant on the north side of town. Service may be a little slow for some and their prices are in the higher range. Curry dishes come with free rice or naan. Vegetarian options are available. (updated Oct 2023)
2 Loving Hut, Shintanjin (from Korail Shintanjin station, cross the tracks to the wrong side over the rickety bridge, head north about 10 m, and then 1 block west). Part of a chain of organic, 100% vegan, new pseudo-religious group-run restaurants. Menus in the chain vary between outlets: Shintanjin's mostly serves rice or noodle based fare, but has a Western-style fake-meat item. Prices typically under ₩5,000, owners are friendly and probably won't try to convert you. Fake-meat can also be purchased to take home. A second outlet may be opening near Expo Park. (updated Oct 2023)
3 Sung Sim Dang, Eunhaeng-dong, Jung-gu (near Jungangno subway station, a few blocks south, walk from the wooden). Established in 1956, this bakery has a wall full of past awards and credentials on display, the prices for baked goods are similar to elsewhere and they make their own macaroons. There is a food court upstairs serving typical continental fare. (updated Oct 2023)
4 Flying Pan, Eunhaeng-dong, Jung-gu (next door to Sung Sim Dang). Restaurant specialising in Italian style cooking and steaks, seemingly owned by the same folks as Sung Sim Dang next door. It's practically a local institution so cab drivers will know it. Has a separate cafe upstairs. (updated Oct 2023)
5 TGI Fridays. The obligatory local chapter of the international American bar/restaurant franchise. Has an outlet about 100 m from the Government Complex station (opposite E-mart), but more notable is the one in the Lotte Department store in Seo-gu as it takes up the entire west side of 9F, offering sunset views of the city and mountains. Course meals from ₩23,000. (updated Oct 2023)
6 Kraze Burger. A Korean dine-in burger chain with an outlet in Dunsan-dong, about one and a half blocks west from the main Timeworld intersection and on the north side of the road (backing on to the drinking precinct) and another near City Hall. Noteworthy because the chain has extensive mushroom/tofu options for those who don't eat meat. (updated Oct 2023)
7 TacoGang (타코갱), Taco Gang, 850 Galma-dong, Seo-gu (tell the cab driver, "Nonghyup gung-dong"; across from the NH store you'll see a pharmacy at the corner; enter that alley and keep walking until you see Taco-K, it's less than a 10-min walk; it's also the same alley that's right beside the apartment complex), ☏ +82 10-3968-0285. 11:30-23:30. Tacos, burritos, fajitas, nachos, and enchiladas. Course meals ₩8,000-12,000.
8 Daejeon Cantina, Dunsan-dong, near Timeworld (go to the intersection that has the convenience store, Gartien Bier/Yellow Taxi, etc.; walk in the direction towards the restaurants/bars from afar (if you look carefully, you'll see a yellow sign that reads "Bonbon"); walk in that direction until you see the Cantina sign; it'll be on your left). Tu-Th 18:00-02:00, F Sa 27:00-05:00; Su 18:00-00:00, closed Mon. Mexican restaurant/bar. Meals from ₩8,000.
9 House Grill (하우스그릴) (exit Yongmung Station through exit #4; keep walking until you reach the bus stop and enter the plaza (there is a Paris Baguette and glasses store sandwiching the entrance). Keep walking straight until the end of the hallway, it'll be on your right), ☏ +82 42 528-6639 (Brian), +82 10 9165-5142. Daily 11:30-22:00. Excellent burgers, arguably the best in Korea. Also offers chili fries, spaghetti, wraps, and huge donkatsu. Meals from ₩5,000.
10 sungsimdang (성심당), 15, Daejong-ro 480beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 1588-8069. 8:00-22:00. Seongsimdang, which started as a small steamed bun house in front of Daejeon Station in 1956, is a local bread house that represents Daejeon by growing with the pride and love of Daejeon citizens. (updated Oct 2024)
11 Gwangcheon Restaurant (광천식당), 129, Jungang-ro, ☏ +82 42-226-4751. 10:30-21:30. Located in Seonhwa-dong, it is a traditional duruchigi restaurant with more than 30 years of tradition. ₩22,000. (updated Oct 2024)
12 Jeongdongmoonhwasa (정동문화사), Changjo 1-gil. 12:00-17:00. Financier, Egg Tart, Canule are sold on the same day of production. ₩3200. (updated Oct 2024)
13 OSEA Kalguksu (Kalguksu) (오씨칼국수), Samseong-dong 304-36, ☏ +82 42-627-9972. 11:00-21:00. Hand-kalguksu restaurant, Korea's representative food. ₩8500. (updated Oct 2024)
14 Taepyeongso rice soup (태평소국밥), Bongmyeong-dong 682-2, ☏ +82 42-525-5820. Open 24 hours a day. Soup rice, beef intestines soup, beef soup, boiled beef head slices, and beef sashimi are popular main dishes. ₩9000. (updated Oct 2024)
15 Vesta (베스타), Mannyeon-dong 339, ☏ +82 507-1386-3366. 12:00-21:00. It is a premium Vesta buffet with top-notch dishes, elegant interiors, and five senses satisfaction, presented by 100 professional chefs. ₩67,000. (updated Oct 2024)
16 Original Taepyeongso rice soup (원조태평소국밥), Taepyeong-dong 375-18, ☏ +82 42-522-5757. Open 24 hours a day. ₩8500. (updated Nov 2024)
17 hard-boiled bulgogi (강경불고기), Mannyeon-dong 362, ☏ +82 42-478-9812. 11:00-21:30. ₩22,000. (updated Nov 2024)
18 Seafood sashimi (해물상회), Yucheon-dong 313-36, ☏ +82 507-1348-1928. 17:00-22:00. ₩89000. (updated Nov 2024)
19 Jinro house (진로집), 45-5 Junggyo-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-226-0914. 11:30-22:00. The stir-fried bean curd is spicy and has a deep taste, and the boiled pork is popular because it is soft and savory. A small stir-fried bean curd ₩13,000. (updated Sep 2025)
20 Kimhwa Kalguksu (김화칼국수), 22-1, Jung-dong, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 42-221-7594. 10:00-20:00, Closed on Sunday. It is a place where you can have a hearty meal near Daejeon Station. Kalguksu ₩6000. (updated Sep 2025)
21 Wolsanbonga (월산본가), 181-10, Daeheung-dong, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-256-4100. 11:30-21:20. This is Daejeon's representative Korean restaurant, and galbi, naengmyeon, and galbitang are popular menus. lunch special ₩19000. (updated Sep 2025)
22 Karamel (카라멜), 157-2, Eunhaeng-dong, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1338-0231. 11:30-21:00, break time 15:00-17:30. Karamel is a restaurant specializing in gnocchi and raw noodles pasta, and cabbage salad is also popular. Gnocchi ₩16000. (updated Sep 2025)
23 Keungil Sikdang (큰길식당), 116-6, Sinseong-dong, Yuseong-gu (six minutes on foot from the research complex sports complex), ☏ +82 42-861-7744. M-Sa 10:30-15:00, 17:00-21:00. Keungil Sikdang is a renowned local dining spot in Daejeon, highly praised for its authentic and hearty Korean comfort food, especially its signature Spicy Braised Chicken (Dak-bokkeum-tang). This establishment is a favorite among locals for its generous portions and deeply satisfying, traditional flavors. It offers visitors an excellent opportunity to experience the robust taste of classic Korean home cooking at an affordable price. ₩10,000. (updated Nov 2025)
24 Mashinae Main Store (마시내 본점), 355-15 Daejang-dong, Yuseong-gu (It takes 22 minutes on foot from Chungnam National University Daedeok Campus.), ☏ +82 42-823-9981. 11:00-23:00, last order at 22:00. Mashinae Main Branch in Daejeon is a widely recognized dining spot, celebrated as the birthplace of the unconventional and highly popular dish, Kimchi Pizza Tangsuyuk (Kim-Pi-Tang). This unique fusion of deep-fried pork, kimchi, and melted cheese offers a distinctive local flavor profile that is a must-try for food adventurers. It’s highly recommended for those looking to experience Daejeon's trendsetting food scene and its original culinary creations. ₩11,000-50,000. (updated Nov 2025)
25 5.5 Dakgalbi Yuseong Sangdae-dong-jeom (5.5닭갈비 유성상대동점), 471-9 Sangdae-dong, Yuseong-gu (It takes 14 minutes on foot from Yuseong Hot Spring Station.), ☏ 0507-1372-5558Country code missing. It is open from 11:30 to 22:00.. 5.5 Dakgalbi in Yuseong-gu is a highly popular franchise location known for serving some of the best stir-fried spicy chicken (Dakgalbi) in the area. This branch is recommended for a satisfying and communal dining experience, where the dish is cooked right at your table to perfection. ₩14,000-60,000. (updated Nov 2025)
Daejeon has such delicious bakeries that it is called the "City of Bread," including Sungsimdang.
Here are some of the better or more exotic bakeries.
26 sungsimdang (성심당), 대전광역시 중구 대종로480번길 15, ☏ +82 507 1588-8069, bread@sungsimdang.co.kr. 08:00-22:00. A famous bakery whose fried soboro and salt bread are delicious. Sungsimdang operates several branches in Daejeon, including its main store, Daejeon Station branch, Lotte Department Store branch, and DCC branch. ₩10,000-30,000. (updated Sep 2025)
27 sungsimdang cakeboutique (성심당 케익부티끄), 480, Daejong-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 1588-8069. A cake shop near Sungsimdang, also known for its long queues. (updated May 2026)
28 정동문화사 (jeongdong moonhwasa), 대전 동구 창조2길 11 (by bus, by taxi, by train). Tu-Sa 12:00-17:00. This is a famous baked confectionery restaurant in Daejeon, and the price is very reasonable. ₩10,000-20,000. (updated Sep 2025)
29 Hare Hare (하레하레), Dunsan-dong 1509, ☏ +82 0507-1424-1595. 08:00-22:00. A bakery with a winning experience in an international baking competition. If you buy bread and drinks, eat on the second floor is available. The recommended menu is marked above, so it's easy to choose. ₩5600. (updated Nov 2024)
30 Leppang 99-1 (르뺑99-1), 650 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu (a 13-minute walk from Yuseong Hot Spring Station), ☏ +82 507-1416-9914. 08:30-23:50. Salt bread and various kinds of cakes are delicious here ₩6,000-36,000. (updated Nov 2025)
31 Harupang (하루팡), 611-1 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu (10 minutes on foot from Yuseong Hot Spring Station.), ☏ +82 507-1380-8567. 08:00-23:00. Harupang is a highly recommended stop on the Daejeon "bread pilgrimage" for visitors seeking specialty local bakeries beyond the big names. This charming dessert heaven is celebrated for its unique and visually appealing selection of pastries and bread. It offers a great opportunity to sample the diverse and high-quality baking culture Daejeon is known for. ₩2,400-25,000. (updated Nov 2025)
32 Cold Butter Bake Shop Headquarters (콜드버터베이크샵 본점), 473 Daeheung-dong, Jung-gu (7 minutes on foot from Jungang-ro Station), ☏ +82 507-1346-3832. Daily 12:00-19:00. Cold Butter Bake Shop is a must-visit in Daejeon for lovers of rich, high-quality butter-based pastries. This main branch is famous for its exceptional selection of Scones and signature Salt Bread, which often sell out early in the day. Located in the heart of the city, it offers a sophisticated taste of Daejeon's modern bakery scene, making it a perfect spot for a premium coffee and dessert break. ₩3,200-30,000. (updated Nov 2025)
33 Mongsim Daeheung Branch (몽심 대흥점), 32, Daejong-ro 480beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 10-2374-9615. A bakery known for its madeleines and financiers. (updated May 2026)
34 mimi dessert (미미 제과점), 17-7, Galmayeok-ro 25beon-gil, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 507-1309-5126. A bakery known for its salt bread sandwiches. (updated May 2026)
35 Parcel Bakery (파셀), 298beon-gil, Jukdong-ro, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 507-1436-0801. A bakery known for its well-crafted signature baked goods. (updated May 2026)
36 Gwanjeodang (관저당), 11, Gubongbuk-ro 21beon-gil, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 507-1372-8324. A bakery known for its fruit-filled baguettes. (updated May 2026)
37 Harehare Dunsan Branch (하레하레 둔산점), 155, Dunsan-ro, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 507-1424-1595. A bakery with a second-floor café where visitors can enjoy bread and desserts in a relaxed atmosphere. (updated May 2026)
38 Green Bakery (그린 베이커리), 80-7, Techno 4-ro, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 507-1313-3497. A bakery known for its egg tarts with a rich, buttery flavor. (updated May 2026)
39 Rorone Bakery (로로네 베이커리), 30, Junggyo-ro, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1386-0260. Popular for pairing fresh pastries with coffee in a cozy setting. (updated May 2026)
40 Cold Butter Bake Shop Main Branch (콜드버터베이크샵 본점), 37, Jungang-ro 112beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1346-3832. Best known for its salt bread and often included on bakery tours in Daejeon. (updated May 2026)
41 Hgeuimja (흐그이므자), ☏ +82 507-1482-2559. Specializing in cakes and desserts served in a calm and cozy atmosphere. (updated May 2026)
There are two major "downtown" areas for drinking in Daejeon. One is in new-town in Dunsan-dong, opposite the Timeworld Galleria shopping complex, and a short walk from Government Complex Daejeon subway station. The second is in the city centre of old Daejeon, down by Jungangno subway station.
In addition, two further large drinking quarters exist in Yuseong and around Chungnam University as well as opposite Seodaejeon Korail station. Smaller areas of bars naturally exist beside each of Daejeon's universities, such as Hannam in the far east and Woosong in the far south.
Note that many bars in Daejeon bar entry to foreigners and people over the age of 30.
1 Santa Claus Lounge, Kung-Dong, ☏ +82 42-825-5500. M-Sa 17:00-02:00, Su closed. Basement hangout place that offers free darts, pool table and foosball. This bar is popular with foreigners, especially international KAIST students. (updated Oct 2023)
2 Yellow Taxi, Dunsan-Dong, ☏ +82 42-487-4499. Yellow Taxi is a western bar. It is very large, with enough space to dance, and has lots of tables to sit and enjoy company. Drinks and food served. There are 2 dart boards and a pool table. On weekends, expect to find live music: rock, funk, blues, or electronic. (updated Oct 2023)
3 Daebak Pocha (대박포차), Jayang-Dong. Daebak Pocha is near Woosong University in Daejeon. Drinks and food are delicious and reasonably priced that many people, especially Woosong University students visit.
4 a drinking mate (술 메이트), Bongmyeong-dong 666-1, ☏ +82 10-8804-1890. 17:00-24:00. ₩13,000. (updated Nov 2024)
5 Rest, fish cake, and a drink (쉼, 어묵 그리고 한잔 술), Bongmyeong-dong 633-1, ☏ +82 507-1423-1244. 19:00-2:00. ₩20,000. (updated Nov 2024)
6 Thank you very much (땡큐베리머치), Daeheung-dong 250-2, ☏ +82 70-7723-0905. 11:30-22:00. ₩3900. (updated Nov 2024)
7 Green Bakery (그린베이커리), 1365 Gwanpyeong-dong, ☏ +82 507-1313-3497. 10:00-19:00. ₩3300. (updated Nov 2024)
8 Cold Butter Bake Shop (콜드버터베이크샵), Daeheung-dong 473, ☏ +82 507-1346-3832. 12:00-19:00. ₩3500. (updated Nov 2024)
9 Sweet Night Kitchen, Daejeon Daeheung Branch (달달한밤부엌), 달달한밤부엌, ☏ +82 507-1445-3511. 17:00-04:00. A bar where you can eat sashimi, barbecue, and steak at the same time. It is a place where you can enjoy accompaniment with dinner with a cost-effective course meal. ₩48,000. (updated Nov 2024)
10 Wolves and Blue Stars (늑대와푸른별), 382-51 Seonhwa-dong, Jung-gu (1 minute to walk from Jung-gu Office Station), ☏ +82 42-256-6848. 20:00-02:00 every day (Sunday is always different). Wolf and Blue Star is a uniquely themed cafe in Daejeon known for its artistic and cozy ambiance, often featuring whimsical decor and high-quality beverages. It serves as a comfortable retreat, offering various specialty coffees, teas, and delicious, often homemade, desserts. This spot is highly recommended for those looking for a quiet, distinctive cafe experience far from the typical chain stores. ₩20,000-60,000. (updated Nov 2025)
11 Ociocoffee (오시우커피), 39 Mokcheok 8-gil, Jung-gu. 11:00. The signature menu is "Ocioplot." Latte with black sesame ice cream (updated Nov 2025)
12 Loch House (로크하우), 10 Mokcheok 8-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-322-0320. 12:00. A cafe with various desserts including cute bear apple pie (updated Nov 2025)
13 Mokumoku (모쿠모쿠), 35 Mokcheok 2-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1343-4172. 11:00. A cozy cafe selling various crepes (updated Nov 2025)
14 Ndoor (앤도어), 22 Mokcheok 3-gil, Jung-gu. 11:00. Cute cafe with a soft atmosphere and sells croffles (updated Nov 2025)
15 coffee anniversary (커피기념일), 45 Mokcheok 8-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 42-1004-1004. 12:00. An antique cafe. You can order a lettering cake (updated Nov 2025)
16 Cafe cozy (카페코지), 27 Daejong-ro 505beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1412-3327. 11:00. Like its name, it's a comfortable, green cafe (updated Nov 2025)
17 Kiiiko (키코), 30 Jungang-ro 129beon-gil, Jung-gu. 12:00. Orange americano and fig tiramisu are popular. (updated Nov 2025)
18 Countcoffee (카운트커피), 27 Daejong-ro 501beon-gil, Jung-gu. 10:30. The interior is spacious and pleasant, and has good access to the downtown (updated Nov 2025)
19 At (애트), 467-1 Daejeoncheonseo-ro, Jung-gu. 09:00. There are a lot of reviews saying that the staff is kind (updated Nov 2025)
20 Lewynnn (르윈), 14 Daejong-ro 517beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1313-2891. 11:30. Deep americano and sweet milk tea are delicious. (updated Nov 2025)
21 Hide Out (하이드아웃), junggu daeheungro121beongil 21 (439 m from Exit 4 of Jungang-ro Station), ☏ +82 42-253-0913. 11:00-22:00. Hideout is a cafe famous for its cake restaurants in Daejeon. More than 10 kinds of handmade cakes are prepared every day, and lemon cake with a combination of lemon curd's freshness and soft sheets is by far the favorite menu. The spacious interior of the store is decorated with a cute interior, and there are various seats such as an outdoor terrace and sitting area, so you can have a comfortable time. ₩4,000. (updated Dec 2025)
22 A bite of the crescent moon (초승달 한입), junggu gyeryongro920beonangil 23 (448 m from Exit 1 of Seodaejeon Intersection Station). 09:30-18:00. It is a brunch cafe that serves a variety of sandwiches in a cozy atmosphere. This place is a popular menu with sandwiches made with croissants and focaccia, which are baked using fresh ingredients, making it a comfortable place to visit alone. Also, it is possible to order in a group, making it suitable for visiting with multiple people. ₩7,300. (updated Dec 2025)
23 Incurve (인커브), donggu gyejokro431beongil 38-4, ☏ +82 10-4344-4336. 12:00-20:00. It is an emotional cafe with the theme of Luck and Four-leaf Clover, and it is a great place to heal with a clean white-tone interior and various plants. The signature menu, Luck Latte, is topped with sweet white chocolate cream and four-leaf clover to satisfy both visual and taste. In addition, it provides visitors with a special experience by writing a guest book and meeting cute dogs. ₩4,000. (updated Dec 2025)
24 One It To (원잇투), seogu dunsannamro200beongil 8, ☏ +82 42-5267-4188. 12:00-20:00. Located in Daejeon, this cafe offers cute interiors and various kinds of fruit acidity. In particular, fruit acidity is soft and delicious, with fresh fruit and soft cream in combination, and it is made with castella bread. It can be accompanied by a pet, and there is also a takeaway service. ₩4,500. (updated Dec 2025)
25 patisserie.lutz (파티세리러츠), seogu dunsanro74beongil 12 (391 m from Exit 2 of City Hall Station), ☏ +82 10-7568-0219. 11:00-20:00. Located in Dunsan-dong, Daejeon, the dessert cafe is famous for its cute Kkumdori tarts and a variety of baked confectionery. At the cozy store, you can feel the Christmas atmosphere, and it is perfect for dates as most seats consisting of two people. The signature Kkumdori tarts have citron filling in them for a refreshing taste, and a variety of desserts change with the seasons. In addition, there are a variety of beverage menus, which are great to enjoy with coffee. ₩4,500. (updated Dec 2025)
26 Mimi Dessert (미미제과점), seogu galmayeokro25beongil 17-7 (545 m from Galma Station Exit 1). 11:30-22:00. It is famous for its Dubai chewy cookies and a variety of desserts. Specifically, up to three Dubai chewy cookies are available per person, and the combination of cardif and pistachio spreads is why many visitors come here. ₩2,500. (updated Dec 2025)
27 Work Room Coffe (워크룸커피), seogu gyeryongro 391 (645 m from Exit 2 of Galma Station), ☏ +82 10-6617-3360. 12:00-23:00. As an emotional cafe that offers a variety of desserts and drinks, parfait is especially popular using fresh fruits. Inside, the black tone creates a modern and clean atmosphere, and the photo zone and cute props add charm. It is positioned to be accompanied by pets and easy to use public transportation. ₩6,000. (updated Dec 2025)
28 Beaneer (빈이어), seogu gyeryongro 399 (701 m from Galma Station Exit 1), ☏ +82 503-7153-0815. 12:00-22:00. It is a cafe that offers an emotional atmosphere and a variety of desserts. Especially, pistachio cream latte and fruit sando are popular, and they are suitable for dog owners because they can be accompanied by pets. The inside of the cafe is decorated with cozy and warm lights, so you can spend a comfortable time. ₩5,500. (updated Dec 2025)
29 Jelly Fore (젤리포에), seogu gyeryongro 399-1 (689 m from Exit 2 of Galma Station), ☏ +82 10-2586-0201. 11:00-22:00. It is a cafe full of cute props and Japanese sensibility. There is a variety of pudding and jelly menus, and custard pudding is especially popular. The menu is in the form of a diary, so it's fun to watch. The inside of the cafe is decorated with cute props, so there are many photo spots that are good for taking pictures. Also, you can accompany your pet, and takeout and delivery services are provided. ₩5,800. (updated Dec 2025)
30 Mood Beige (무드베이지), seogu galmayeokro25beongil 17-19 (607 m from Galma Station Exit 1), ☏ +82 10-7172-3972. 12:00-18:30. A cake specialty store with same-day lettering, it offers cute and cute designs. Available on-site without reservation, there are a wide variety of cakes available, which are useful when you urgently need a cake. It is reasonably priced, and the lettering service is provided free of charge, making it a perfect place for anniversaries or birthday parties. ₩50,000. (updated Dec 2025)
31 Sumgyeol Coffee (숨결 커피), 31, Bomun-ro 260beon-gil, Jung-gu, ☏ +82 507-1308-5159. A spacious café known for its traditional Korean shaved ice desserts and large second-floor seating area. (updated May 2026)
32 Patisserie Sosin (파티세리 소신), 7, Nongdae-ro 15beon-gil, Yuseong-gu. Known for its beautifully crafted cakes, making it a popular choice for special occasions and gifts. (updated May 2026)
33 Champ Space Coffee Roasters (챔프스페이스 커피로스터스), 97, Suhyang-gil, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 507-1425-5388. A coffee roastery known for its warm atmosphere and carefully brewed specialty coffee. (updated May 2026)
34 Monostone (모노스톤), 586, Daejeoncheondong-ro, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 507-1395-6110. A stylish café known for its photogenic interior and popular egg tarts. (updated May 2026)
35 Oud Lune (오드 룬), 51, Oncheondong-ro, Yuseong-gu. +82 507-1364-9944. A dessert café known for its salt bread and welcoming service. (updated May 2026)
Jjimjilbangs are not ubiquitous, but they are there. Check that they allow overnight sleeping first.
1 Magic 24 Sauna (매직24사우나), Yuseong-gu (in the middle of the Love Motel district north of the Yuseong Intercity/Express Bus Terminal and one block south of Yuseong HomePlus). A jjimjilbang located very close to Daejeon's primary Express Bus Terminal, this is situated conveniently for those passing through town. The building is a nondescript white cube with a simple backlit sign in hangul (no English) which sticks out like a sore thumb amongst all its trashy neon neighbours. This jjimjilbang offers hot and cold public baths from the natural thermal springs of Yuseong district.
Another jjimjilbang is available in the Rodeo Town building, between City Hall and Tanbang subway stations, and walking distance (~1 km towards and beyond City Hall) from downtown Dunsan.
A Youth Hostel has dorm accommodation for ₩7,000-8,000 per night. It is located in southern Yuseong, approximately a 10-min walk south from Hanbat Nat'l University or you can take the 102, 103, 104 or 113 bus to its western termination and then walk east for its approximate location. You will then take the left fork and going away from the terminal, which is adjacent to the restaurant buildings, and you will see a left turn, about 250 m, which leads to a very big youth hostel. It appears to be intended mainly for conventions and conferences. There are just rooms where you get a blanket to sleep on the floor so don't expect beds. Showers are shared.
2 Rodeo Land 24:00 in Bulgaria (로데오랜드 불가마24시), 77, Munjeong-ro, Seo-gu, 대전 서구 문정로 77 로데오 타운 4층 (by bus, by taxi, by train), ☏ +82 507-1357-9270. It is one of the largest jjimjilbangs in Daejeon and is often visited by families 13,000~20,000. (updated Sep 2025)
You can look for love motels which vary in quality, price and cleanliness. Many of these are centred in Dong-gu, near the Dongbu Intercity Bus Terminal or in old downtown in Jung-gu, south of the Jungangno nightlife district. Most western-style hotels with close proximity to the subway line are in the Yuseong Spa vicinity. This is also where you will find the splurge hotels so inquire ahead. Outside of Yuseong, chain hotels also exist around the Government Complex Daejeon.
3 Toyoko Inn, 922, Dunsandong, Seo-gu (10 min walk from Government Complex Daejeon Station), ☏ +82 42-545-1045, fax: +82 42-545-1046. Check-in: 16:00, check-out: 10:00. Part of the Japanese chain of no-frills business hotels. ₩60,500 for a single, ₩132,000 for a suite, disabled access doubles for ₩82,500. (updated Oct 2023)
4 Dunsan Graytone Hotel (호텔 그레이톤 둔산), 70 Dunsanjung-ro, Seo-gu, ☏ +82 42 482 1000. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 11:00. Hotel Grayton Dunsan is about a 1-2 minute walk from Exit 5 of City Hall Station on Daejeon Line 1, and Daejeon KTX Station is 7 stops away by subway. Hanbadang Arboretum is about a 10-minute drive away, and Yuseong Hot Spring Park's footbath experience center is five subway stops away. A large shopping mall, general hospital, and government offices are located near the hotel. The hotel provides facilities and services for travelers and business travelers, including meeting rooms and parking lots. Fee are around ₩71,500 per night for a smart single room and ₩88,000 for a standard double. (for adults). (updated Oct 2023)
Riveria. The only 5-star hotel in Daejeon. ₩180,000 for a normal room, ₩300,000 for a junior suite, ₩1,000,000 for the royal suite.
5 Best Western Legend Hotel, 547-5 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-825-2521. ₩193,600 for a double, ₩484,000 for the top suite. (updated Oct 2023)
6 Yousung Hotel (Yuseong Hotel), 480 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-820-0100. ₩190,000-330,000. (updated Oct 2023)
7 Hotel Spapia, 545-5 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-600-6006.
8 Hotel Adria, 442-5 Bongmyeong-dong, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-828-3636.
9 LOTTE City Hotel Daejeon (롯데시티호텔 대전), 33 Expo-ro 123beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42 333 1000. Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Lotte City Hotel Daejeon is about a 17-minute drive from KTX Daejeon Station on the Gyeongbu Line, and about a 22-minute drive from Daejeon Intermodal Bus Terminal. Nearby attractions include the Daejeon Convention Center, which is about a 1-minute walk away, Hanbadang Arboretum, which is about a 5-minute drive away, and Sacred Heart Cathedral, which is about a 1-minute walk away. The hotel features a business center, meeting rooms, and banquet halls, as well as a fitness center and coin-operated laundry facilities. The hotel has a total of 306 rooms with cozy interiors. The hotel's dining facilities include 'C' cafe', which offers all-day dining overlooking the city of Daejeon. Room types include standard, junior suite, suite, deluxe, double, and twin, with rates between ₩200,000 and ₩300,000. (updated Oct 2023)
A few of the universities in town accept considerable numbers of international students.
DICC. DICC runs a range of Korean language classes. The most basic elementary classes are held in the medium of English language on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. It is best to inquire in person as the website is poorly maintained. Elementary courses start several times each year. Intermediate courses start as demand dictates.
1 Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) (카이스트), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, ☏ +82 42-350-2114. One of South Korea's premier universities, also ranked among the top universities in the world, with a focus on science and engineering.
2 Daejeon University (대전대학교), 62 Daehak-ro, Dong-gu, ☏ +82 42-280-2114. One of the private university in Daejeon.
Daejeon has numerous job openings for ESL/EFL teachers at public schools and private academies. Most teaching jobs require applicants to be a native English speaker and to have a 3-4 yr college degree. Salaries for teaching jobs generally start between ₩2.0 and 2.5 million per month and often include free housing and round-trip airfare on a 1-year contract. Since the Korean won has dropped precipitously in value relative to other major currencies, salaries are starting to rise.
PCbangs (internet cafes) are peppered over the entire city and dirt-cheap to use, plus complimentary internet-enabled PCs are a common sight in independent coffee shops.
An immense range of international calling cards are available from the International Food shop outside Daejeon Korail station, as well as from smaller shops located beside universities catering to international students, such as the one outside Woosong West campus' main East Gate.
Daejeon is a very safe city by global standards. Note that Daejeon does not play host to a US military base, and as such, anti-American sentiment (and by extension, anti-Westerner sentiment) is low. If anything in town could be deemed dangerous, elderly drunks occasionally congregate around the front of Daejeon Korail station at night, including weeknights. Ironically, they are more inclined to hurl abuse at or chase down groups of obvious foreigners than individuals.
Daejeon's tap water is "drinkable" however residents tend to boil their water or purchase affordable bottled water, or fill their own bottles at local parks or at the mountain springs that surround town.
For a police emergency, dial 112. For a fire or ambulance emergency, dial 119.
For various help, consider visiting the DICC.
Cleaning services will exist at high-end hotels, otherwise, find a local dry-cleaner by looking for the sign setak (세탁).
According to the city government, you can get to anywhere in South Korea from Daejeon within half a day.
Seoul and Busan are less than an hour and two hours away, respectively, on the KTX. Gyeongju is also now rather accessible courtesy of the new Shin-Gyeongju KTX stop between Daegu and Busan. Seo-Daejeon Korail station will similarly link you up to Gwangju.
There are several pick-up spots around town for the airport bus, which charges a princely sum of about ₩14,000 for the ride (₩3,500 for the regular inter-city bus). Also, see this articles Get in section for information on travel to Jeju. Another option to get to Jeju would be to take KTX to Busan and catch a ferry but this would be both less economical and efficient.
Closer places of interest include:
Mt. Daedun, one of Korea's more famed mountains (you may have seen photos of its suspension bridge) is close by at a 45-minute bus trip away. Buses depart from the Dong-gu Intercity bus terminal at 10:30. Miss it and you're out of luck.
Gongju, adjacent city and former capital of Baekje, known for its Beakje tombs. Also the gateway to hiking a nearby national park.
Cheongju, Daejeon's airport, and historic town in its own right. Birthplace of jikji, the world's oldest moving metal type print book.
Mt. Gyeryong (you can get off at Oryong Station Exit 5 and arrive by bus 107). Mt. Gyeryong is the third designated national park in South Korea and is 845 m high. The peak, Cheonhwangbong, is a restricted area, and there are many tourists to Donghaksa Temple. Mountain climbers often go up to the Donghaksa-Eunseon Falls-Gwaneumbong course or the Donghaksa-Namma tower-Sambulbong course. (updated Oct 2023)
During festival season, Daejeon is the natural transfer point for travellers from the south end of the country heading to Boryeong for its expat-oriented mud festival.
Most tourist literature lists Daejeon’s attractions, but few mention its spoken heritage. Residents converse in the Chungcheong dialect, a softer‑toned variation of Korean that mellows the city’s bustling character. Phrases such as “Jom jom!” (a friendly “slow down”) pepper everyday exchanges, especially in neighbourhood markets and local eateries. Picking up a few basic words not only eases transactions but also signals respect for the regional identity, often prompting a warm, unsolicited tutorial from shopkeepers. This linguistic nuance adds a layer of immersion that transcends the visual, allowing visitors to engage with the city’s cultural rhythm on a more personal level.
City in South Korea This article may require cleanup to meet Wikipedia's quality standards. The specific problem is: Grammar and formatting. Please help improve this article if you can. (October 2024) (Learn how and when to remove this message) Metropolitan City in Hoseo, South KoreaDaejeon 대전Metropolitan CityDaejeon Metropolitan City대전광역시  transcription(s) • Hangul대전광역시 • Hanja大田廣域市 • Revised RomanizationDaejeon-gwangyeoksi • McCune–ReischauerTaejŏn-gwangyŏksiView of Daejeon from BomunsanUam Historic ParkDaejeoncheonGovernment ComplexDaejeon Station FlagEmblemInteractive map of DaejeonDaejeonCoordinates: 36°21′00″N 127°23′06″E / 36.350°N 127.385°E / 36.350; 127.385CountrySouth KoreaRegionHoseoDistricts5Government • TypeMayor–council • MayorLee Jang-woo (People Power) • BodyDaejeon Metropolitan CouncilArea • Total539.85 km2 (208.44 sq mi)Population (February 2026) • Total1,441,203 • Density2,669.6/km2 (6,914.3/sq mi) • DialectChungcheong GDP (Nominal, 2023) • TotalKRW 54 trillion(US$ 43 billion) • Per capitaUS$ 33,682ISO 3166 codeKR-30FlowerWhite magnoliaTreePineBirdKorean magpieWebsitedaejeon.go.kr Daejeon (Korean: 대전; Korean pronunciation: [tɛdʑʌn] ⓘ) is South Korea's fifth-largest metropolis, with a population of nearly 1.5 million. Located in a central lowland valley between the Sobaek Mountains and the Geum River, the city is known both as a technology and research center, and for its close relationship with the natural environment. Daejeon is a major transportation hub, having developed as a railway town, and is approximately 50 minutes from Seoul by KTX or SRT high speed rail. Daejeon (along with Seoul, Gwacheon and Sejong City) is one of South Korea's administration hubs. The city is home to 23 universities and colleges, including Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) and Chungnam National University, as well as government research institutes, and research and development centers for many chaebols such as Samsung and LG, mostly located in the city's Daedeok Innopolis. From the 1980s, multiple national administrative functions were moved from Seoul to Daejeon, most of which are now located in the Government Complex, resulting in another population increase. It was elevated to the status of metropolitan city in 1989. The city was a sub host for the 1986 Asian Games, hosted the Expo '93, and the 2000 International Mathematical Olympiad and will be the main host city of the 2027 Summer World University Games. Daejeon is situated in a lowland valley with three major rivers, all of them eventually flowing into the Yellow Sea by way of the Geum River. The city is surrounded by several small mountains, and is located approximately 170 km (106 mi) south of Seoul, 290 km (180 mi) north of Busan, and 70 km (43 mi) east of the Yellow Sea. It experiences a monsoon-influenced, four-season climate with wet, hot summers and drier, cold winters. Daejeon is bordered to the east by Boeun County and Okcheon County in North Chungcheong Province, to the west by Gongju and Gyeryong in South Chungcheong Province, to the south by Geumsan County and Nonsan in South Chungcheong Province, and to the north by Sejong City and Cheongju in North Chungcheong Province. Its geographical coordinates range from 127°14′ to 127°33′ east longitude and 36°10′ to 36°29′ north latitude. Daejeon covers an area of 539.98 square kilometers and has a population of 1,518,775 as of 2015. Administratively, the city is divided into five districts and 79 administrative neighborhoods (177 legal neighborhoods). The metropolitan city hall is located in Dunsan-dong, Seo District.
[edit] The earliest record of the modern name 'Daejeon' is in the 1481 geography book, Tongguk yŏji sŭngnam. 'Daejeon' (대전 大田) is a Hanja translation of the native placeword for the area, 'Hanbat' (한밭), meaning 'Great fields'. 'Hanbat', is a compound word that adds 'Han' (한/often transcribed in Hanja as 韓, as in Korea), that means Great or big, and the word 'Bat' (밭), meaning field, leading to Big/Great Field(s).The 'Han' (한) translated into 'Dae' (大) - both meaning big, and 'Bat' (밭) translated to 'Jeon' (田), both meaning fields. The name Hanbat is still in use as a road name for Hanbat-daero (한밭대로), or Hanbat road, a road of 12.7 kilometers connecting Daejeon's Yuseong district to Dong-gu. The name also exists in several other Daejeon landmarks and institutions, including Hanbat National University and Hanbat Baseball Stadium.
[edit] Ancient history to the Later Three Kingdoms Era[edit] It is unclear exactly when humans first inhabited the Daejeon area. However, the Paleolithic site of Seokjang-ri in nearby Gongju, Chungcheongnam-do, and the Yongho-dong site in Daedeok District, Daejeon, suggest that people lived here from around that time. From the Bronze Age, artifacts such as bronze items, dwelling sites, and pottery have been excavated, providing concrete evidence of sustained human habitation. During the Proto–Three Kingdoms Period, the area was part of Mahan, one of the Three Han states. It is believed to have been home to Sinheunguk (臣釁國), one of the small states that made up Mahan. However, some theories place Sinheunguk in Seosan or Yesan County in South Chungcheong Province, so its exact location is uncertain. Proponents of the Daejeon theory speculate that "Sinheung" is related to Jinhyeon-hyeon, which will be discussed later and eventually connects to the place name Jinjam-dong. Meanwhile, the area around the now Yuseong District is thought to have been the site of Naebiri-guk (內卑離國) of Mahan. This is because the Three Kingdoms-era place name for Yuseong District, Nosaji, is also recorded as Naesaji (內斯只), and both names share the element "Nae" (內). In the Three Kingdoms Period, the area became part of Baekje's territory and was known as Usul-gun (雨述郡), centered around Eumnae-dong in Daedeok District and including Hoedeok-dong. Also on Usul-gun, in the city exists the remains of Bakjae's mountain fortress Usul-fortress (우술성), which was declared a city-designated monument in 1989. This name is a transcription of the native Korean place name "Bisul" or "Bisuri," where they took the meaning "rain" from the character 雨 and the sound "sul" from 述. At Gyejoksan Mountain in Jang-dong, Daedeok District, there is a legend that "when the mountain cries during severe drought, rain comes," leading to the place name "beak-dal-san" or "beakdal" mountain, and "Bisuri," (비수리) meaning "rainy peak." This legend is also recorded in early Joseon-era texts like the Geographical Appendix to the Annals of King Sejong and the Sinjŭng Tongguk yŏji sŭngnam (신증동국여지승람; 新增東國輿地勝覽), the version of Tongguk yŏji sŭngnam, updated in 1530. Under Usul-gun, there were Nosaji-hyeon (奴斯只縣) in the area of Guseong-dong, Yuseong District; Sobipo-hyeon (所比浦縣) in Deokjin-dong; and Jinhyeon-hyeon (眞峴縣) in Bonggok-dong, Seo-gu. Among these, Jinhyeon-hyeon was the only one not under Usul-gun but belonged to Hwangdeungyasangun (黃等也山郡), centered around Yeonsan-myeon in Nonsan, South Chungcheong Province. Based on the Five Divisions established during King Seong(성왕;year 504 ~557 july)'s reign(523 may~ 554 july), the area around Gongju was the Northern Division, and the area around Nonsan was the center of the Eastern Division, so it likely belonged to one of these two. Considering that the Daejeon area later generally moved in conjunction with Gongju, the dominant theory is that it belonged to the Northern parts of regional classification. During this period, the area was one of the main frontlines among Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla, resulting in many mountain fortress ruins in Daejeon, leading to an oral tradition that the name of Sikjang Mountain originated from the Baekje army storing provisions on the mountain. There are also numerous fortifications that are closer to small forts than large mountain fortresses. Notably, after Baekje's King Gaero had Wiryeseong captured by Goguryeo's King Jangsu, Baekje faced a critical crisis due to continued southward advances by Goguryeo. The Goguryeo army reached as far as the Daejeon area, creating an unprecedented situation where Baekje's Ungjin Fortress was pressured from both the northeast (Sejong) and southeast (Daejeon). Relics left by the Goguryeo army from this time can be found in Wolpyeong-dong in Seo District, Daejeon, as well as in Bugaang-myeon, Saerom-dong, and Naseong-dong in Sejong. It was not until the reign of King Dongseong that Baekje, allied with Silla, succeeded in driving out the Goguryeo forces from the Daejeon area. Baekje recovered the entirety of Sejong, most of Cheongju, and most of Daejeon. However, they had to tolerate Silla's occupation of the entire Goesan area—which was originally part of Hanseong Baekje's territory—as well as the northern half of now Daedeok District and the southwestern part of Cheongju. Goesan was recovered from Silla during the reign of King Uija of Baekje, but the Sintanjin area and the southwestern part of Cheongju were never regained until Baekje fell. Therefore, the northern region of Daedeok District has deep historical connections not only with Baekje but also with Silla. During the wars for the unification of the Three Kingdoms in 660, there is a record that the Silla army stationed at Nosurisan (怒受利山) during the Battle of Hwangsanbeol, which broke out on July 9. Given the phonetic similarity to Nosaji-hyeon located in Yuseong District, it is considered to be the same place. As the Daejeon area was a border region adjacent to Hwangdeungyasangun (Nonsan), a fierce battleground, it would have been suitable for the Silla army to set up camp. After the fall of Baekje, the area became the backdrop for the Baekje Revival Movement. The Ongsanseong (甕山城), where the revival forces blocked the Silla army's path and fought around August 661, is presumed to be Gyejoksanseong Fortress on Gyejoksan Mountain in Jang-dong, Daedeok District. After a three-day siege, Ongsanseong fell on September 27. Subsequently, Usul-gun was attacked by Kim Pumil, the governor of Sangju, and over 1,000 people were executed. According to records, Jo Bok (助服), the last military commander of Usul-gun and a second-rank Dalsol, surrendered to Silla along with a third-rank Eunsol named Paga (波伽) and their followers. Later, in August 662, remnants of the revival forces gathered and fortified themselves at Naesajiseong (內斯只城), presumed to be the fortress located in the aforementioned Nosaji-hyeon (奴斯只縣) which corresponds to the now Yuseong District area, and resisted, prompting the dispatch of 19 generals, including Kim Heumsun, to defeat them. In the Unified Silla period, based on Silla's nine provinces and five secondary capitals policy, the area belonged to Ungcheonju (熊川州). Later, due to King Gyeongdeok's Sinicization policy in 757, Usul-gun was renamed Bipung-gun (比豊郡), Nosaji-hyeon became Yuseong-hyeon (儒城縣), Sobipo-hyeon became Jeokjo-hyeon (赤鳥縣), and Jinhyeon-hyeon was renamed Jinryeong-hyeon (鎭嶺縣). Jinryeong-hyeon still belonged separately to Hwangsan-gun (黃山郡), the renamed Hwangdeungyasangun. Ungcheonju was also renamed Ungju (熊州). During the Later Three Kingdoms period in the early 900s, the area came under the territory of Later Baekje. Compared to the original Baekje, Later Baekje's domain extended much further east beyond Daejeon, deeply into Gyeongsang-do, and had also reclaimed the northern part of Daedeok District, which had previously been occupied by Silla. Therefore, the area of Daejeon belonged to Later Baekje until its collapse in 936. Goryeo Dynasty[edit] Entering the Goryeo period, Bipung-gun (比豊郡) was renamed Hoedeok-hyeon (懷德縣), Jeokjo-hyeon (赤鳥縣) became Deokjin-hyeon (德津縣), and Jinryeong-hyeon (鎭嶺縣) was changed to Jinjam-hyeon (鎭岑縣), while Yuseong-hyeon remained unchanged. According to the ten provinces established during King Seongjong's reign, the Daejeon area belonged to Hanam-do. All four prefectures were subordinate to Gongju-mok (公州牧), which had been elevated to one of the twelve administrative districts known as "mok." Later, during King Hyeonjong's reign, the implementation of the Five Provinces and Two Frontier Regions system placed the four prefectures under Yanggwang-do. Gongju-mok was downgraded back to simply Gongju, but the four prefectures remained its subordinate counties. Subsequently, during King Myeongjong's reign, Hoedeok-hyeon and Jinjam-hyeon were promoted to "ju-hyeon" (main counties), and officials known as "Gamwu" (監務) were dispatched, initiating independent administration. This autonomy continued into the Joseon Dynasty, where they remained separate districts. However, Yuseong-hyeon and Deokjin-hyeon did not gain independence and continued as subordinate counties of Gongju. Meanwhile, there were special administrative districts called "hyang," "bugok," and "so." Among these, the most famous was Myeonghakso (鳴鶴所), known as the site of the Mang Yi and Mang Soi Rebellion. This area is believed to have been located in what is now Tanbang-dong in Seo-gu.[unreliable source?] Joseon Dynasty[edit] During the Joseon period, Hoedeok-hyeon and Jinjam-hyeon were each elevated to Hoedeok-gun and Jinjam-gun, respectively. The area that is now the central part of Daejeon remained a small rural village within Gongju, which had been re-elevated to Gongju-mok during the reign of King Chung-hye of Goryeo. Notable figures like Song Si-yeol of the Eunjin Song clan lived in this vicinity, and the place name Songchon-dong, related to them, still exists as one of Daejeon's districts. Additionally, the Hoedeok Hwang clan established their base in the Hoedeok-hyeon area. Meanwhile, the name "Daejeon" (大田), which is the Hanja transcription of the native term "Hanbat" (한밭) for Great Fields, first appeared in records in the early Joseon period, in Tongguk yŏji sŭngnam, and continues to be used today. Until 1906, the current central area of Daejeon was part of Gongju, not Hoedeok or Jinjam, before it was incorporated into Hoedeok-gun. Of course, that elongated territory of Gongju wasn't Gongju land in the narrow sense; rather, as the concept of subordinate prefectures (sokhyeon) like Yuseong-hyeon and Deokjin-hyeon disappeared and were absorbed into Gongju itself, the territory expanded accordingly. However, the now Yuseong area remained part of Gongju until it was transferred during the establishment of Daejeon-gun in 1914. With Yuseong joining Daejeon-gun, the region roughly restored the combined territory of the central area and its subordinate prefectures from the times of Usul-gun and Bipung-gun. What transformed the history of Daejeon was the finalization of the Gyeongbu Line railway route in 1900. After Daejeon Station was established in Daejeon-ri, Sannae-myeon, Gongju County, in 1904, population influx began and urbanization took off. In 1906, when Sannae-myeon was incorporated into Hoedeok County, the Hoedeok County Office also moved from its original location in Hoedeok town to the urban area of Daejeon. Japanese Occupation[edit] In 1914, during the major reorganization of administrative districts by the Japanese Governor-General of Korea, the existing Hoedeok County and Jinjam County, along with Yuseong-myeon (Yuseong Township) of Gongju County, were merged to form Daejeon County (大田郡). Had the name Hoedeok County been retained, the city might be called "Hoedeok Metropolitan City" today. Instead, the name "Daejeon," which was simply the name of the village where the train station was located, was adopted as the new county name, replacing the traditional name Hoedeok. Modern day[edit] In 1963, Daejeon expanded its territory by incorporating the entire Yucheon-myeon of Daedeok-gun, and parts of Sannae and Hoedeok-myeon. From this point, Sannae-myeon of Daedeok-gun became an actual exclave. In 1973, Buk-myeon and Yuseong-myeon of Daedeok-gun were each elevated to Sintanjin-eup and Yuseong-eup, respectively. In 1977, the ward system (gu-je) was implemented in Daejeon, establishing two wards: Jung-gu and Dong-gu. In 1983, Daejeon further expanded by incorporating the entire areas of Yuseong-eup and Hoedeok-myeon of Daedeok-gun, and parts of Tan-dong, Gujeok, Jinjam, and Giseong-myeon. At this time, Daedeok-gun was split into two separate parts. This situation continued until 1989, when Daedeok-gun was abolished and Daejeon was elevated to a Directly Governed City. Just before this elevation in 1988, Seo-gu was separated from Jung-gu. In 1989, Daedeok-gun was abolished and merged into Daejeon, and the integrated Daejeon of Chungcheongnam-do was elevated to Daejeon Directly Governed City. Simultaneously, Yuseong District was separated from Seo-gu, and Daedeok District from Dong-gu, completing the current system of five districts. Kumdori;꿈돌이, or the little alien, mascot of the local 1993 expo. In 1993, the city hosted the 1993 Daejeon Expo, which increased its national profile. The yellow alien mascot "Kumdori" appeared in various products such as plush toys and animations, becoming one of Daejeon's mascots. After the Expo ended, the facilities and site were utilized to open the Expo Science Park, but some exhibition halls are now almost closed. Although it had the smallest population among the five Directly Governed Cities, it surpassed Gwangju Metropolitan City in population in 1995. In the same year, it was renamed to the current Daejeon Metropolitan City. In the late 1980s, Daejeon was elevated to the status of Special City (Jikhalsi), thus became a separate administrative region from South Chungcheong Province. In 1995, all South Korean Special Cities were again renamed as Metropolitan Cities, which is reflected in the current official name of Daejeon, Daejeon Metropolitan City (대전광역시). In the 1980s, the Korean administration began moving various national government operations from Seoul to Daejeon, eventually opening the Daejeon Government Complex in 1997. Today, the national government offices in Daejeon include Korea Customs Service, Small and Medium Business Administration, Public Procurement Service, National Statistical Office, Military Manpower Administration, Korea Forest Service, Cultural Heritage Administration, Korean Intellectual Property Office, Korail, Korea Water Resources Corporation, Korea Minting and Security Printing Corporation and Patent Court of Korea. The population of Daejeon increased dramatically as a result of the government center. With the construction of Sejong Special Self-Governing City in 2013 for the division of capital functions and balanced local development, many of the public institutions that had previously headed to Daejeon were moved to Sejong, and many public institutions in Seoul were also moved to Sejong. With the launch of Sejong City, large-scale development began, resulting in infrastructure construction and large-scale apartment complexes. Sejong is located immediately north of Daejeon, and Daejeon citizens began to outflow to Sejong. As of July 2020, there was net outflow of more than 100,000 people from Daejeon to Sejong.
[edit] Daejeon lies between latitudes N36°10'59" and N36°30'1" and longitudes E127°14'48" and E127°33'35" near the middle of South Korea. It is 167.3 km (104.0 mi) from Seoul, 294 km (183 mi) from Busan and 169 km (105 mi) from Gwangju. Known historically as 'big field,' the city lies inside a great circle surrounded by several mountains, with Gyeryongsan National Park straddling the city border on the west, and the foot of the Sobaek Mountain range just beyond the city to the south and east. Three rivers run through the center of the city: Gapcheon (갑천), Yudeungcheon (유등천), and Daejeoncheon (대전천). These flow roughly from south to north, eventually joining the Geum River which borders the city on the northeast. The river changes direction after leaving Daejeon, turning to the southwest and eventually emptying into the Yellow Sea near Gunsan. Climate[edit] Daejeon Climate chart (explanation) J F M A M J J A S O N D     26     4 −6     37     7 −4     52     13 1     82     19 7     92     25 13     167     28 18     307     30 22     300     30 23     153     26 17     59     21 9     48     14 3     30     6 −3 █ Average max. and min. temperatures in °C █ Precipitation totals in mm Imperial conversion JFMAMJJASOND     1     39 22     1.5     45 26     2     55 34     3.2     67 44     3.6     76 55     6.6     82 65     12     85 72     12     87 73     6     79 63     2.3     69 49     1.9     56 37     1.2     43 26 █ Average max. and min. temperatures in °F █ Precipitation totals in inches Daejeon has a monsoon-influenced, four-season climate that lies between the humid subtropical and humid continental climatic classifications (Köppen Cwa/Dwa, respectively), with slightly more mild temperature extremes compared to Seoul. Winters are cold and dry with monthly mean temperature of −1.0 °C (30.2 °F) in January. Summers are hot and humid with a monthly mean temperature of 25.6 °C (78.1 °F) in August. The heaviest rainfall during the year typically occurs from July through August during the Korean monsoon season. Climate data for Daejeon (1991–2020 normals, extremes 1969–present) Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Year Record high °C (°F) 16.6(61.9) 22.6(72.7) 29.3(84.7) 30.4(86.7) 33.3(91.9) 35.7(96.3) 37.7(99.9) 39.4(102.9) 36.0(96.8) 31.2(88.2) 26.3(79.3) 19.8(67.6) 39.4(102.9) Mean daily maximum °C (°F) 4.1(39.4) 7.0(44.6) 12.7(54.9) 19.4(66.9) 24.5(76.1) 27.9(82.2) 29.6(85.3) 30.3(86.5) 26.3(79.3) 20.8(69.4) 13.5(56.3) 6.2(43.2) 18.5(65.3) Daily mean °C (°F) −1.0(30.2) 1.4(34.5) 6.6(43.9) 13.0(55.4) 18.5(65.3) 22.7(72.9) 25.5(77.9) 26.0(78.8) 21.2(70.2) 14.6(58.3) 7.7(45.9) 1.0(33.8) 13.1(55.6) Mean daily minimum °C (°F) −5.5(22.1) −3.6(25.5) 1.1(34.0) 6.9(44.4) 12.8(55.0) 18.1(64.6) 22.2(72.0) 22.5(72.5) 17.0(62.6) 9.4(48.9) 2.8(37.0) −3.4(25.9) 8.4(47.1) Record low °C (°F) −18.6(−1.5) −19.0(−2.2) −10.7(12.7) −2.9(26.8) 3.1(37.6) 8.1(46.6) 13.0(55.4) 12.3(54.1) 4.2(39.6) −2.9(26.8) −11.4(11.5) −17.7(0.1) −19.0(−2.2) Average precipitation mm (inches) 25.5(1.00) 37.2(1.46) 51.6(2.03) 81.6(3.21) 91.8(3.61) 167.3(6.59) 306.9(12.08) 299.8(11.80) 152.5(6.00) 59.3(2.33) 48.0(1.89) 29.7(1.17) 1,351.2(53.20) Average precipitation days (≥ 0.1 mm) 8.0 7.0 8.3 8.3 8.2 9.9 16.4 14.8 9.1 6.1 8.5 9.3 113.9 Average snowy days 9.8 6.0 2.8 0.2 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.1 2.1 7.9 28.9 Average relative humidity (%) 65.3 60.3 57.9 56.9 62.4 69.8 79.1 78.2 75.3 71.8 69.3 67.9 67.9 Mean monthly sunshine hours 168.2 176.2 207.7 220.5 239.8 198.5 155.5 177.0 180.3 205.1 162.4 162.5 2,253.7 Percentage possible sunshine 52.7 56.1 54.0 54.0 51.2 41.3 31.4 37.6 45.1 56.1 52.5 53.9 48.0 Average ultraviolet index 2 2 3 4 5 6 6 5 5 3 2 2 4 Source 1: Korea Meteorological Administration (percent sunshine 1981–2010) Source 2: Weather Atlas (UV)
[edit] Administrative divisions of Daejeon Daejeon is divided into five political "gu" or "districts": Seogu (서구), Donggu (동구), Yuseonggu (유성구), Daedeokgu (대덕구), and Junggu (중구). Subdivision Korean Area (km2) Population (September 2021) Daedeok District 대덕구; 大德區 68.71 174,791 Dong District 동구; 東區 163.68 223,409 Jung District 중구; 中區 62.18 232,077 Seo District 서구; 西區 95.53 474,444 Yuseong District 유성구; 儒城區 176.53 350,337
[edit] Historical populationYearPop.±%1970406,910—    1980651,792+60.2%19901,049,578+61.0%20001,368,207+30.4%20101,501,859+9.8%20201,488,435−0.9%Source: Daejeon is the fifth most populous city in Korea, with 1,467,468 registered residents as of 2023. The most populous district is Seo District (473,851 residents), although the district lost 32,219 residents since 2006, it remains the most densely populated in the city at 4,960 inhabitants per square kilometer (4,960/km2). As of 2023, the number of registered foreign residents in Daejeon was 21,949 (1.5% of the total population) with the largest representations being Vietnamese (0.5%), and Chinese or Korean-Chinese (0.2%). There are also smaller numbers of registered residents (0.1% or less in each case) from Uzbekistan, Mongolia, United States, Philippines, Indonesia, India, Japan, Thailand, Bangladesh, Nepal, Taiwan, Pakistan, Russia, France, United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and Turkey. Plot of population numbers Religion[edit] Religion in Daejeon (2024) Not religious (51.0%) Protestantism (21.0%) Buddhism (17.0%) Catholicism (10.0%) Others (2.00%) According to the census of 2005, of the people of Daejeon, 21.8% follow Buddhism and 31.2% follow Christianity (20.5% Protestantism and 10.7% Catholicism). There is a large mosque, namely the Islamic Center of Daejeon (ICD/ Daejeon Mosque), occupying a converted residential building within the KAIST-CNU university triangle and is extremely popular.
[edit] This section has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages) This article's tone or style may not reflect the encyclopedic tone used on Wikipedia. See Wikipedia's guide to writing better articles for suggestions. (September 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.Find sources: "Daejeon" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (September 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) (Learn how and when to remove this message) During the Joseon Dynasty, education institutions in Daejeon included Hoedeok Hyanggyo in Eumnae-dong, Daedeok District, and Jinjam Hyanggyo in Gyochon-dong, Yuseong District. Additionally, there were institutions such as Sungheon Seowon (崇賢書院), Dosan Seowon, and Jeongjeol Seowon (靖節書院). Sungheon Seowon was rebuilt in 1609 (the first year of King Gwanghaegun) by Song Nam-su (宋柟壽) after being destroyed during the Imjin War, and its ruins remain in Wonchon-dong. The Namganjeongsa study hall at Uam Historic Park in Daejeon Jeongjeol Seowon was established in Geyang-dong in 1684 (the 10th year of King Sukjong), and Dosan Seowon was founded in Tanbang-dong in 1711, contributing to the education of local yangsengs (young scholars). However, it was abolished by the Seowon Abolition Order issued by Heungseon Daewongun during King Gojong's reign. In addition, much education was conducted through privately established seodangs (서당/private schools) and ganghakdang (강학당/private academies). In 1585 (the 18th year of King Seonjo), Nambunbong (南奮鵬)'s Bongsojae (鳳巢齋) was established in Seokgyo-dong. During King Injo's reign, Kim Gyeong-yeo (金慶餘) established Song-aedang in Hoedeok 2-dong. During King Sukjong's reign, Song Si-yeol established Namganjeongsa (남간정사), and in the late Joseon period, Song Byeong-seon established Seoknamjae (石南齋) in Seongnam-dong. As of the current period, there are 146 elementary schools, 88 middle schools, 62 high schools, 5 special schools, and 5 technical colleges,11 universities. Regarding libraries, Daejeon is home to the Daejeon Lifelong Learning Center, Student Education and Culture Center, Hanbat Library, Yongun Library, Galma Library, Seongnam Library, Yuseong Library, Ansan Library in Daedeok District, Braille Library, Gasuwon Library, Donggu Gaowol Library, and Panam Library. Major public universities in Daejeon include: Chungnam National University, a flagship national university established for the South Chungcheong Province. Chungnam National University specializes in biotechnology, medicine, and the agricultural sciences. Daejeon Chungnam University, a campus in the four-year Korea National Open University system. Hanbat National University, a university that specializes in partnerships between industry and academia. Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), the nation's first public research-oriented science and engineering institution. The university was ranked as the best Asian science and technology school by Asiaweek in 2000. KAIST has been internationally accredited in business education. Chungnam University Law School Building KAIST Campus Major private universities in Daejeon include: Mokwon University, a Korean Methodist institution. Pai Chai University, founded in 1885, one of the oldest private universities in South Korea. Woosong University, with a specialized curriculum based on international exchange, foreign-language, and IT education. Hannam University, founded in 1956 by Christian missionaries, with a main campus in O-Jeong Dong (site of the historic Missionary Village), and a branch campus is in Techno Valley. Specialized high schools and academies include: Daejeon Foreign Language High School is a high school focused on foreign language teaching. The school provides language education of 7 majors including English, German, French, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese, and Russian.[citation needed] Daejeon Science High School is a high school focused on teaching science. Taejon Christian International School is a non-profit international school.[citation needed] Other Private schools include: Bomoon High School
[edit] This section has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages) This article's tone or style may not reflect the encyclopedic tone used on Wikipedia. See Wikipedia's guide to writing better articles for suggestions. (September 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.Find sources: "Daejeon" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (September 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) (Learn how and when to remove this message) Daejeon is known as the research and development hub of Korea. In addition to KAIST and the Institute for Basic Science, it is home to more than 20 other government research institutions, and various corporate research centers, mostly located around Daedeok Innopolis in Yuseong District north of the Gapcheon river. Fields of research undertaken in Daejeon include telecommunications, nanofabrication, biotechnology, water, nuclear and hydro power, nuclear fusion, design, measurement technologies, mechanical engineering, fuel cells, aeronautics, new materials, robotics, new drugs, and environmental technologies. Daedeok Innopolis' membership includes 898 corporations, 35 government-invested and sponsored institutions; six universities, and 15 public organizations.[citation needed]KAIST CampusResearch institutes in Daedeok include the Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology (KRIBB), the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI), Electronic and Telecommunications Research Institute (ETRI), Korea Aerospace Research Institute (KARI), Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute (KASI), Korea Fusion Energy Research Institute (KFERI), National Nanofab Center, Korea Basic Science Institute (KBSI), Institute for Basic Science (IBS), Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM), Korea Research Institute of Chemical Technology (KRICT), Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI), Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science (KRISS), Marine and Ocean Engineering Research Institute, Institute of Information Technology Advancement (IITA), Korea Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, Agency for Defense Development (ADD), Korea Institute of Toxicology (KIT), Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Korea Institute of Nuclear Non-proliferation and Control, National Institute for Mathematical Sciences (NIMS), Korea Institute of Nuclear Safety (KINS), Rare Isotope Science Project (RISP), National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), and the National Security Research Institute. Among the technology produced in Daedeok are ETRI's wireless communications systems CDMA, WIBRO, and DMB, KRIBB's nano biochips, KARI's KOMPSAT satellites, and NFRI's KSTAR nuclear fusion experimental reactor. Daedeok is also home to 21 corporate research centers with global reach surrounded by an equal number of smaller firms. Some of the notable corporate research centers are Dongbu Advanced Research Institute (biotechnology, microorganisms and agrichemicals), GS-Caltex Value Creation Center (environmentally friendly products including substitutes for oil), Hanwha Chemical Research (biotechnology, electronics materials, catalysts, and nanotechnology), Honam Petrochemical Daeduk Research Institute (synthetic chemistry and petrochemicals), LG Chemical LTD. Research Park (lithium ion battery and polymer battery development), Samyang R&D Center (medical research and electronics), and SK Institute of Technology (petroleum-related research).[citation needed] Public corporation research institutes such as Korea Electric Power Research Institute (hydroelectric projects and nuclear energy), Korea Institute of Construction Materials (authorized test agency for construction materials), and Korea Institute of Aerospace Technology (aerospace design, satellites, launch technologies) are also part of the Daedeok system.[citation needed] On 16 May 2013, Daejeon was selected as the core of the International Science and Business Belt. Besides a tire production facility, Hankook has its main research & development centre in Daejeon.
[edit] Museums and arts centers[edit] Expo Science Park in 2007 Daejeon Culture and Arts Center Daejeon is the home of multiple arts and culture complexes, mostly centered around the Daedeok area. These include: Daejeon Museum of Art which hosts primarily technology-oriented modern and contemporary exhibitions Daejeon Arts Center which is home to local music and theater groups including the Daejeon Philharmonic Orchestra Laurent Beaudouin-designed Lee Ungno Museum, a large permanent collection of works by or related to the prominent Korean artist Lee Ungno Expo Science Park, built on the grounds of the former international exposition (Taejŏn Expo '93) is home to the Institute for Basic Science and the National Science Museum, Korea's flagship science museum which features a main exhibition hall highlighting harmony between nature, man, and technology, as well as dedicated buildings related to natural history, future technology, biosphere, a children's science museum, and an astronomical observatory. Geological Museum, belonging to the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources Daejeon Citizen's Observatory which houses a 10-inch refracting telescope and is the first citizen observatory in Korea Other arts spaces in the city include the six-floor Daejeon Artist House, performing arts center, and the Natural Ecology Center at Daecheong Lake. View from the East Garden in Daejeon Hanbat Arboritum Parks and nature[edit] Daejeon citizens are recognized for their fondness of nature, with most mountains, hot springs, and rivers freely open for public use. Many of the city's modern-day traditions, festivals, attractions, and industries are linked in some way to important mountains, rivers, and forests. Eight "beautiful sights" are designated by city government, including the mountains Sikjangsan, Bomunsan, Gubongsan (구봉산), Jangtaesan, and Gyejoksan, the lake Daecheonghosu, as well as Yuseong Foot Spa, and Expo Science Park, which includes landmarks such as the Hanbit Tower and Expo Bridge. The Daejeon Hanbat Arboretum, built on the former parking lots of the World Expo, also holds the distinction of being the largest manmade arboretum in Korea. Two people viewing sunset from Bomunsan (mountain) Fortress in Daejeon, Korea Overlooking Daejeon from the south, Bomunsan Mountain park was established as a park in 1965. The park contains water springs, trails, Buddhist temples, and some heritage sites dating back as far as the Bronze Age. Facilities include a nature healing center, outdoor concert hall, and Daejeon O-World, a theme park which includes Daejeon Zoo, Joy Land, and Flower Land. The park is home to 160 species of 600 animals, 17 rides and themed gardens including Sounds garden, Herb Garden, and Rose Garden. Media[edit] Daejeon is a provincial center for the television, newspaper and publishing industries. Major television broadcasting companies, such as KBS and MBC, have branches in Daejeon; Daejeon Broadcasting Corporation (TJB) is a local television broadcaster based in Daejeon. Cable TV services are available in most apartments. Eight (8) channels of Mobile TV are provided with the digital radio channels. Several FM radio stations provide news and music on the air. KBS, MBC, TJB have their FM radio channels, there are Christian radio channels, FEBC and CBS, and traffic news channel TBN. Daejeon Ilbo is the major local newspaper which covers South Chungcheong Province. Festivals[edit] Daejeon is home to both traditional folk festivals, and contemporary cultural celebrations. These include the Daejeon Science Festival, the Hyo Culture Root Festival, a Full Moon Festival, Yuseong Oncheon Festival, Geumgang Rojas Festival, Diku Festival, Gyejoksan Mountain Manbal Festival, Gyeonwoojik Women Festival, and various international food, drink, and music festivals throughout the seasons.
[edit] Daejeon World Cup StadiumThis article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.Find sources: "Daejeon" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (October 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) Daejeon is home to multiple professional teams and national and internationally active sports facilities. The Daejeon World Cup Stadium was constructed for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, hosting several games including the South Korea vs. Italy match in the round of 16. The facility is now the home of the city's football club. The Daejeon Hanbat Sports Complex was built in 1964, and was one of the host sites of the 1986 Asian Games, and also hosted preliminaries during the 1988 Olympic Games in Seoul. Today, with several of the facilities renovated, it hosts the city's professional baseball, K3 League football, and volleyball teams. The city is also home to LPGA golfers Pak Se-ri and Jang Jeong, and is the hometown of former New York Mets left-handed reliever Dae-sung Koo. Football[edit] The city is home to the K League 1 football club Daejeon Hana Citizen, playing home games at Daejeon World Cup Stadium, and the K3 League side Daejeon Korail, which plays home games at Daejeon Hanbat Sports Complex.[citation needed] Baseball[edit] Daejeon Hanbat Baseball Stadium The Hanwha Eagles of the KBO League were founded in Daejeon in 1985. Between 1986 and 2024, they played their home games at the Daejeon Hanbat Baseball Stadium, built in Busa-dong in 1964, with an iconic view of Bomunsan in the outfield. The stadium was renovated and expanded in 2013, moving the outfield wall and expanding seating to 13,000. Before the 2025 season, they moved to the newly-built Daejeon Hanwha Life Ballpark with a capacity of 20,000 spectators. Volleyball[edit] The V-League men's volleyball club Daejeon Samsung Fire Bluefangs and the V-League women's volleyball club CheongKwanJang Red Sparks both play their home games at the Chungmu Gymnasium of the Daejeon Hanbat Sports Complex.[citation needed]
[edit] This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed.Find sources: "Daejeon" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (October 2022) (Learn how and when to remove this message) Daejeon is a center of transportation in South Korea, where two major expressways, Gyeongbu Expressway and Honam Expressway Branch, and two major railway lines, Gyeongbu railway and Honam railway, are joined. Travel time between Daejeon and Seoul using the KTX high-speed rail system is about 50 minutes. The nearest airport is Cheongju Airport, about a thirty-minute drive north. Direct bus connections to Incheon International Airport exist.[citation needed] Bus[edit] Daejeon has an extensive bus network that connects all districts of the city and surrounding areas. The system includes both local and intercity routes, operated primarily by Daejeon Metropolitan Express Transit Corporation and private bus companies. The main bus terminals, such as Daejeon Complex Terminal and Yuseong Intercity Bus Terminal, provide connections to other major cities across South Korea. Subway[edit] Main article: Daejeon Metro One line, Daejeon Subway Line 1, of a planned five-line subway system has been operating since 17 April 2007 (partial operations on this line began on 16 March 2006). This subway line connects Daejeon Station, located in the original city centre, with the more modern and more recently developed sections of this city, including Dunsan, where the city hall and a number of national government buildings are located. Notable differences between the Daejeon subway and the Seoul subway include narrower cars, no doors connecting cars, four cars per train rather than ten, and storage space under the seats for use by passengers. Originally, plastic tokens for toll were read by a proximity sensor when entering the turnstiles, and then inserted into a slot when exiting. The design of the tokens allowed them to be used for advertising. The system now employs the T-money system, a rechargeable series of Smart cards and other "smart" devices used for paying transportation fares. Platform screen doors are installed in the subway stations.[citation needed] Cycling[edit] The name of the public bicycle in South Korea is different for each region, and the name of the public bicycle in Daejeon is Tashu (Korean: 타슈). Tashu is an unmanned rental public bicycle service operated in Daejeon since 2008, and the basic rental fee is 500 won, and if one purchases a daily ticket, the bicycle can be used within an hour on that day.
[edit] Pyeongsong Youth Cultural Center and blocks of flats of Dunsan-dong district from Lotte City Hotel Daejeon in 2020 View of Daejeon from Sikjang Mountain, with Dong-gu in the foreground Daejeon at night
[edit] This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (October 2024) (Learn how and when to remove this message) An Yu-jin, singer (IZ*ONE, Ive) Kim Joon-ho, comedian Do Ji-han, actor Choi Sung-bong, singer Chung Eun-yong, policeman and activist Han Eun-jung, actress Yoon Joo-hee, actress Hyuk, singer (VIXX) Hong Jin-ho, television personality and former professional StarCraft player Hyesung, singer (Vanner) Ivy, singer and musical actress Kwon Sang-woo, actor Lee Na-eun, singer and actress (April), born in Cheongju. She moved to Daejeon before entering elementary school. Lee Yoon-ki, film director Rhie Won-bok, cartoonist Pak Se-ri, former professional golfer Joon Park, artist Ryu Su-jeong, singer (Lovelyz) Oh Sang-uk, fencer Shin Chaeho, independence activist, historian, anarchist, nationalist and the founder of Korean ethnic nationalist historiography Shin Seung-hun, singer-songwriter Song Joong-ki, actor Sullyoon, singer (NMIXX) Chen, singer, dancer, model and member of (Exo, Exo-CBX) Kyu Ha Kim, judoka Baek Ye-rin, singer (15&) Jamie, singer (15&) Jo Bo-ah, actress, model and host Park Eun-ooh, singer-songwriter, music producer, vocalist and lyricist Sunghoon, singer (Enhypen) Son Suk-ku, actor Choi Jung-in, singer Kim Woo-seok, singer (X1, Up10tion) and actor FlaSh, StarCraft: Brood War and StarCraft II player Paul Sun-Hyung Lee, actor Kim Dong-hyun, singer (AB6IX) Yeo One, singer (Pentagon) and actor Kwak Dong-yeon, actor Heejin, singer (Loona, Loona 1/3, Artms) Yoon Seo-yeon, singer (tripleS) Park Shi-on, singer (tripleS) Lee Hae-in, figure skater Kim Duk-soo, traditional musician
[edit] Daejeon has sister city relationships with the following fourteen cities: Ōda, Japan (1987) Seattle, United States (1989) Budapest, Hungary (1994) Nanjing, China (1994) Calgary, Canada (1996) Guadalajara, Mexico (1997) Uppsala, Sweden (1999) Novosibirsk, Russia (2001) Brisbane, Australia (2002) Bình Dương Province, Vietnam (2005) Sapporo, Japan (2010) Durban, South Africa (2011) Shenyang, China (2013) Montgomery County, United States (2017)